Media Council Papua New Guinea (MCPNG) President Mr. Neville Choi says journalists are not above the law and must uphold the same legal standards as any citizen.

His statement follows the arrest of a journalist caught drinking in public on Sunday 28th December in Port Moresby city, confirmed by National Capital District Metropolitan Superintendent Warrick Simatab.

Police reports stated the journalist was at Five Mile, Kanage Street, around 2:30PM, consuming alcohol on the roadside with a friend. The journalist initially resisted arrest, but officers used reasonable force to detain him and transport him to the police station.

Once sober, the journalist was formally charged and taken to Boroko Police Station, where he had the opportunity to post bail.

While emphasizing the critical public role journalists play, Mr. Choi stressed that accountability and personal responsibility remain central to the profession.

He noted that the Media Council respects the rule of law and believes journalists should maintain high ethical standards, both in their work and personal conduct, given the public trust and scrutiny inherent in the role.

“Journalists are no different from ordinary citizens. Laws are laws. If you break the law and you are caught, you must face the law. As journalists, we report on accountability, so we must also be accountable ourselves.”

Mr. Choi explained that the Council’s Code of Ethics guides professional conduct, but public expectations extend beyond the newsroom.

Because of their visibility and influence, journalists are often held to a higher standard. He added that many journalists contribute positively to their communities outside work, strengthening public trust and respect for the profession.