The Media Alliance of Tajikistan (MAT) has expressed concern over a confrontation between two private newspapers – “Nigoh” and “Ozondagon”.

“The analysis of recent publications in the newspapers containing mutual accusations is the evidence of a growing conflict potential between the parties, which is threatening to grow into a protracted “information war”, — says the MAT press release.

The media community has been undertaking essential efforts to consolidate journalists and media outlets. Such incidents are bringing these efforts to naught.

Members of the Media Alliance are confident that any conflicts and frictions within the media community – especially those concerning the issues of professionalism and the media market – severely affect the solidarity, democracy and the freedom of speech in the country.

The Media Alliance is especially concerned about the formal reason for the souring relations between “Nigokh” and “Ozondagon” – the publications reflecting political and economic interests of certain business structures and politicians. This seriously affects the image of all media in the country, which must play the role of an independent watchdog and an institution of public control over the authorities.

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