Journalism has developed over the years into a sophisticated profession acting as the barometer of society. The free Press is articulating the will and aspirations of society. The Press, contrary to perennial adversaries and detractors, is driven by national consciousness. No journalist worth his salt can sit idly by and watch while the economy is being sabotaged by a ruling elite. To win the confidence of the public, the mass media must be seen to be fair, objective, reliable and credible.
Journalism is fraught with risks and dangers.
Boldness can be transformed into nightmares when reporters find themselves in the firing line. Corrupt and powerful figures can be ruthless when their interests are threatened. Politicians also frequently claim that the Press should support them, but in their claim reveal an inability to perceive its independent role alongside the role of the party, political person or state. It is the most dangerous foe of tyranny . . . Edmund Burke went as far as to call the Press the Fourth Estate of the Realm .