My Take | A little humour would be welcome amid the attempt to create a ‘happy’ city
- Good governance depends on open debate. And there should be room for satire which can make perceptive points as it puts a smile on our face
One of my favourite British TV shows is the topical, satirical Have I Got News For You, which has been running for more than 30 years. Last week’s show included unbridled mockery of the royal family, government officials, opposition politicians and celebrities. It was witty, sharp, irreverent and entertaining, allowing viewers to vicariously let off steam and have a harmless chuckle at the expense of those in power.
Satire has a long tradition in Britain and Hong Kong has a different culture. But a little humour would be welcome amid attempts to create a “happy” city after the bleak pandemic years.
The environment for those involved in satire, commentary and the media generally is, however, becoming more challenging in Hong Kong. Chinese-language newspaper Ming Pao announced last week that veteran cartoonist Zunzi’s contributions would end after 40 years. His cartoons caused controversy and have been pulled. Ming Pao has not explained its decision.
The move followed criticism of one cartoon last week concerning district council reforms. Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen said it was discriminatory and smeared the government.
The controversy has sparked renewed debate in Hong Kong about the role of the media, the extent of press freedom and the space available for commentary, especially criticism of the government. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu said media organisations should be responsible, have integrity and fulfil residents’ expectations. No one could reasonably disagree with that statement. Lee also said he is against any false, biased, defamatory or misleading information. Fake news, the wrongful damaging of reputations and the spreading of misinformation, are all concerns in the digital age.
But responsible journalism includes a duty to hold the powerful to account, ask officials tough questions and expose abuses. It will, inevitably, sometimes result in content the government does not like. Responsible reporters strive to establish the truth. This involves taking steps to substantiate information and seek out different perspectives. It is not a straightforward process. The government’s view of what the “facts” are may differ from those of others. And even with the best practices and intentions, errors can occur.