The Liberal party has distanced itself from proposals to grant a media ombudsman the power to halt media coverage of ongoing cases, emphasizing its commitment to freedom of the press. This comes after the party’s culture spokesperson, Kim Valentin, suggested that a media ombudsman should be able to prevent media outlets from publishing stories, sparking criticism.

Deputy chairman Stephanie Lose has affirmed that the party believes the Media Ombudsman should operate with full respect for the freedom of the press, a cornerstone of democracy. She explicitly stated that the Liberal party does not support a media ombudsman having the authority to prevent media outlets from covering specific cases.

The controversy arose earlier in September when Kim Valentin argued that Danish media executives often leave victims helpless and ruined. His proposal involved granting a future media ombudsman extensive powers, including the ability to stop ongoing media coverage if the ombudsman assessed that the debate had gone off track.

The Liberal party has now clarified that Valentin’s views do not represent the party’s official policy.