The Speaker of the 55th Legislature, Richard Nagbe Koon, has curved his comment against journalists assigned at the legislature.
“My comment was not intentional, but a practical joke intended to bring those reporters closer to me.”
Koon has meanwhile, made an open apology to Legislative Reporters at the Capitol.
His apology followed the circulation of a “secretly recorded” audio from Tuesday’s 12th Day Sitting of the 3rd Quarter of the 2nd Session.
The comment was widely reportedly interpreted as a ‘threat against journalists.’
While addressing reporters in the Chamber on Thursday, November 27, on the embarrassment the comment has caused him, Koon clarified that his remark was ‘not intentional, nor was it meant to undermine the work of the press.’
As such, he recognized the media as a vital partner to the Legislature.
“Therefore, I will do nothing to stall or hinder their reportage.”
Koon reassured reporters of his continuous support, openness, and respect for press freedom.
He noted: “The House of Representatives thrives on transparency and public engagements.”
Koon further encouraged Legislative Reporters to remain professional in the discharge of their duties, and to uphold the sanctity, ethics, and values of the journalism profession.
As a mark of acceptance of the apology, journalists presented cameras, lifted microphones, pens ready and then welcomed the Koon’s apology with visible smiles. Lawmakers, who witnessed Koon/journalists exchange, commended him for taking “a bold and responsible step to accept his wrong outburst.”
The House of Representatives also, reaffirms unwavering commitment to sustain a free, independent, and responsible press as an essential pillar of country’s democracy.