CAIRO, April 12 (MENA) - Veteran journalist and candidate for the head of the Journalists' Syndicate Abdel Mohsen Salama said that the comprehensive economic package he secured for journalists is not just a promise, but a real, tangible achievement that has already been approved and obtained, promising to announce its full details very soon.

Speaking during a meeting he had with fellow journalists in Ismailia at the Suez Canal Authority’s Beach Club, he stated that his election program is not limited to the economic aspect, for it also features two other key pillars: professional development and press freedoms.

He outlined the main points of his campaign program, which focuses on improving both the professional and financial conditions of journalists, while also addressing the challenges the profession faces.

Salama emphasized that this economic package is the largest in the history of the Journalists’ Syndicate, and is aimed at supporting journalists and improving their status—especially given the current economic difficulties and the struggles facing the press industry. He stressed his commitment to serving all members of the syndicate by every possible means.

He said he is running with a comprehensive and realistic program based on the three main pillars of freedom, professionalism, and a better income. According to him, these are the foundations of a strong syndicate that defends its members and their rights.

Salama affirmed that journalism cannot survive without freedom, and that throughout his career, he has always defended journalists' rights and gains. He added that his election program includes practical steps to strengthen press freedom.

On the professional side, he stressed the importance of restoring the syndicate’s and the profession’s respect, and of improving journalists' social standing with employers and the public. He said he has a detailed plan that covers all types of press institutions—national, partisan, and private—and that the syndicate, under his leadership, will be a strong supporter for all journalists.

Regarding the economic aspect, he said that journalists’ dignity starts with achieving financial and social security. He promised that the quick steps he would take if elected would significantly improve journalists' living conditions.

He highlighted his previous achievements during his time at the syndicate, such as establishing a training institute, renovating the syndicate building, and offering a variety of services to members.

He also pledged to support journalists working in struggling partisan newspapers, saying it would be a top priority. He committed to reviving the initiative to create a dedicated website for them and to continue the deposit fund project to support those affected by newspaper shutdowns.

Salama concluded by saying that journalists' rights are not privileges but legitimate entitlements. He called for unity, urged jounalists to put personal differences aside, and said that the competition should be respectful and fair. He promised to always stand up for journalists’ rights and to work to meet their demands and aspirations.
(MENA)
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