Ombudsman asks politicians for new explanation in newspaper subscription case

Denmark's Parliamentary Ombudsman is seeking additional clarification from local politicians in Lolland Municipality concerning the termination of their subscriptions to the local newspaper, Lolland-Falsters Folketidende. The Ombudsman's office is scrutinizing the cancellations, which took place shortly after the newspaper published a critical report on the municipality's administration.

The core of the investigation lies in whether these subscription cancellations constitute an illegal act of reprisal against the press. The Ombudsman initiated its inquiry in May, examining the reasons behind the cancellations, as they could potentially violate legal provisions protecting journalistic freedom.

“

Certain statements from the local politicians involved may leave a different impression.

Lolland Municipality has previously stated that the cancelled subscriptions belonged to the mayor and two council members. The municipality maintained that the cancellations were not intended as punishment for the newspaper. However, the Ombudsman noted that "certain statements from the local politicians involved may leave a different impression."

Consequently, the Ombudsman has informed Lolland Municipality that it expects the municipality to reconsider its position. The Ombudsman has asked for a new update on "the result of the considerations," indicating a need for the municipality to re-evaluate whether the politicians' statements alter the perceived intent behind cancelling the newspaper subscriptions.

“

the result of the considerations