MATT Calls On GML To Address Serious Allegations of Ethical Compromise Following Resignation of Senior Investigative Journalist

UPDATE (19/06/26): Hours after MATT publicly called on Guardian Media’s leadership to address allegations made by Seemungal following his departure from the company, the media organization used the front page of its newspaper on Thursday (18th June, 2026) to issue a strongly worded statement, rejecting suggestions that it has compromised its journalistic standards or allowed political interests to influence its reporting.

GML defended its record of holding Governments accountable, arguing that accusations of political bias are nothing new and have been leveled against it by administrations from across the political spectrum. The company maintained that its journalists operate independently and according to established professional standards, insisting that its editorial decisions are made without fear or favour, and also pointed to its publicly available editorial policies, code of conduct and corrections procedures as evidence of its commitment to transparency and accountability.

Guardian Media further stated that criticism from those in positions of power is often an unavoidable consequence of robust journalism, adding that it remains committed to challenging public officials and reporting on matters of national importance, regardless of political consequences.

The company also rejected suggestions that it serves partisan interests, declaring that it does not view issues through political colours but through the national interest.

However, despite the response from GML, questions raised by MATT and Seemungal remain at the centre of the controversy, with critics arguing that the statement stops short of directly addressing specific allegations surrounding its newsroom conduct and editorial decision-making.

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Following the recent public resignation of Senior Investigative Journalist Joshua Seemungal from Guardian Media Limited (GML), the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) is calling on GML to address the serious allegations of ethical compromise that were raised by him upon resigning.

Seemungal announced his resignation from the media house via a Facebook post on Tuesday (16th June, 2026), which said, “Due to, what I believe to be, organisational ethical failings, I have resigned as a Senior Investigative Journalist at Guardian Media Limited. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to my former colleagues. It was a pleasure working with some of the best media professionals in the region — many genuinely good people.”

He added, “I would also like to thank the company for its belief in me, and for the platform it presented to become a better journalist. The most important responsibility of investigative journalism is to hold powerful institutions and individuals accountable, regardless of political affiliation or influence. I believe the ability to do so, on the Investigative Desk, was compromised. So, I have resigned to protect my ethical integrity, peace of mind, and moral compass.”

In a Media Release on Wednesday (17th June, 2026), MATT said it “notes with deep concern the recent resignation of Senior Investigative Journalist Joshua Seemungal from Guardian Media Limited (GML), and the alarming allegations of ethical failings and compromised editorial independence he has cited as his reasons for leaving. MATT urgently calls on the leadership of GML to publicly clarify these issues, address the perceived conflicts of interest, and reassure the public that its newsroom remains free from political interference and dedicated to the highest standards of journalistic ethics.”

According to MATT, “At a time when journalism is under unprecedented threat with the closure of traditional media entities and the unchecked proliferation of misinformation on social media — the fundamental pillars of our profession must be vigorously defended. Integrity, independence, and accuracy must be maintained at all possible times in newsrooms. The public relies on the Fourth Estate to hold powerful institutions and individuals accountable, regardless of political affiliation or influence. Therefore, the product of journalism must always remain beyond suspicion. Mr. Seemungal’s public statements raise grave concerns about the internal editorial standards at GML. He said he resigned to protect his ethical integrity, peace of mind, and moral compass after observing situations that severely compromised the investigative desk's ability to serve the public interest.”

MATT added, “Among the deeply troubling allegations is the claim that a senior editorial employee engaged in political work prior to the 2025 General Election. This reportedly included attending a high-profile political event, contributing to campaign material for a major political party, and attempting to recruit Mr. Seemungal for political research and writing. Most alarmingly, despite these alleged political activities, this senior individual was reportedly permitted by newsroom leadership to return to editorial duties following the election. Furthermore, Mr. Seemungal highlighted the unexplained suppression of several investigative stories that he believed met appropriate editorial and legal standards, an assessment he states was corroborated by experienced external editors. After utilising internal channels to express his concerns regarding these ethical breaches, he observed a sudden decline in his performance appraisal scores, leading to fears of professional retaliation.”

The Media Release concluded by saying, “Investigative journalism requires substantial professional effort, personal sacrifice, and risk. When a respected journalist feels that raising legitimate ethical concerns carries professional consequences, it creates a chilling effect that ultimately deprives the public of vital information. MATT notes with concern the current silence from GML's management in the public domain regarding these reports. A lack of transparency in the face of such serious accusations is detrimental not only to the reputation of Guardian Media Limited but to the wider media fraternity in Trinidad and Tobago.”

The Executive of MATT comprises of President Prior Beharry, Vice President Kejan Haynes, Secretary Phillip Matheson, Assistant Secretary Shavani Lal and Treasurer Vindhar Suraj. The Floor Members are Jermaine Cruickshank and Yvonne Webb.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister the Honourable Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP, has once again slammed GML, stating on Facebook and X today (Thursday 18th June, 2026) that, “Guardian media and those associated with it are a laughing stock. Instead of responding to the allegations of their disgusting behavior from their own journalists and media association they hilariously attempted to deflect attention from providing a proper response. GML is a weapon used to smear and destroy individuals, businesses and organizations that compete economically with associates and special interests.”

The Prime Minister added, “They provoke racial tensions, use religious bigotry, allegations from anonymous sources, smears and innuendos as their tools of trade. It is a shameless organization, motivated by the sick insatiable greed of those who economically exploit the country behind the scenes. Can someone please forward this letter from MATT to GML because it seems that they missed it.”

More on this as it becomes available.

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