Muscat: Today, the Media, Tourism, and Culture Committee of the Shura Council hosted Mohammed Said Al Balushi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Information, along with other ministry officials, to address queries and observations regarding the draft version of a new Information Law.
During the meeting, media professionals and individuals interested in the field of information had their questions answered.
Al Balushi emphasized that the draft new Information Law was formulated after years of implementing laws that regulate media practices and activities in the Sultanate of Oman.
He further explained, "The advancements in the field of information, both in terms of tools and methods of practice, have highlighted the necessity for a new law that governs media actions and contributes to the development of information in Oman."
Al Balushi highlighted that the new Information Law aims to benefit journalists, media professionals, media institutions, and all individuals involved in the field of information, whether through traditional or modern means.
He added that the draft law is based on the provisions of Article (35) of the Basic Law of the State, which guarantees freedom of opinion, speech, writing, and other forms of expression within the boundaries of the law. Additionally, Article (37) ensures freedom of the press, printing, and publishing in accordance with the terms and conditions specified by the law. The law prohibits any actions that may incite strife or hatred, harm the security of the State, undermine human dignity, or violate human rights.
The meeting, chaired by Abdullah Hamad Al Harthy, Chairman of the Media Committee, thoroughly discussed all articles of the draft information law that regulate various aspects of media actions in the Sultanate of Oman. Proposed amendments to the law were also examined, with justifications provided based on the requirements of media practices and previous meetings held to discuss the new draft.
