ON HOLD

Attacks on journalists in Mexico delay democracy

The rash of horrifying attacks on journalists investigating official
corruption by police in recent months is a disturbing gage of just how far
Mexico has to go before it achieves true democracy. With each beating,
harassment or threat to a journalist, Mexico takes another backward step.

In a democracy, journalists don't have to fear for their lives or those of
their family or friends in doing their jobs. But that hasn't been the case
in Mexico where political rhetoric about protecting the freedom of
journalists has done little more than up the intimidation.

"We will not be intimidated," President Ernesto Zedillo declared recently
in calling on Mexico City authorities to launch an extensive probe into the
attacks on journalists and punish those responsible. Still, almost daily
there are reports about yet more frightening attacks on journalists.

More troubling, with these attacks alleged to have been inflicted by
Mexican police, who can be trusted to investigate?

As heartening as Mexico's recent election successes were, they pale in
comparison to official corruption that still prevails. Nevertheless,
electoral success cannot be discounted. It's a start. If Mexico does not
elect officials who believe a free press is a critical and important
foundation of democracy, change will not happen.

President Zedillo's denouncement of the attacks is welcomed. Change has to
begin at the top.