{"id":96677,"url":"http://info.mzalendo.com/api/v0.1/hansard/entries/96677/?format=json","text_counter":225,"type":"speech","speaker_name":"Mr. Speaker","speaker_title":"","speaker":null,"content":"Hon. Members, the media is an important facet of our democracy. So important is the media that it has often been referred to as “the Fourth Organ of Government” or “the Fourth Estate” due to its increasing influence over public opinion as well as its direct and indirect influence in the workings of the organs of Government. Traditionally, the Press has served as the voice of the people by keeping the Government in check. This is a role whose significance cannot be over-emphasized, particularly with regard to the National Assembly."}