Fundamental to the role of any journalist is to inform the public. Journalists add value to the public discourse by providing credible and reliable evidence and offering critical analysis of that information.
We, as citizens, rely upon the work of journalists to form our personal opinions on issues being debated in public discussions. They are a valuable resource for us, and they often stand as a faithful guardian of our democracy and our way of life.
It is frightening when any journalist, particularly a journalist with the stature and reputation of Jamal Khashoggi, suddenly disappears. It is unacceptable for his whereabouts and well-being not be known 15 days after he entered the Saudi Arabian embassy in Turkey.
Regardless of who the journalist is, irrespective of her/his nationality or ethnicity, or notwithstanding whether one agrees with the analysis of the information she or he brings, that journalist must be protected.
We must demand that Jamal Khashoggi’s whereabouts and well-being be made known. Please call upon your elected officials to demand the return of Jamal Khashoggi, and all suspected parties account to the public. We should not accept his unexplained disappearance to stand.
Photo: Advocates hold up signs while protesting the disappearance of Jamal Khashoggi (AP)