President can't understand the part press plays in democracy

Last Saturday while by the seaside the Romanian President insulted journalists once again. He called them "incredibly rude" and civil society representatives have responded. They express concern about the President's attitude, which they are critical of.
Stelian Tanase, political analyst: "He is impossible to understand"
"The President has got no reason for such attitude and his response to the press shows how democratic he is. Such a thing couldn't have happened in a civilized state and I think civil society must react strongly. He is actually sending an undemocratic message to his own electorate, probably also because after the scandal with the reporter from Antena 1 channel his popularity has been growing. After the referendum he has shown a certain nervousness because of failing to capitalize his popularity and overthrow the government. Although not aggressed, he is aggressive, which is impossible to understand. Basescu reiterates offenses against the press, although he enjoyed press support. Things were calm around him that moment and he had no reason to get irritated".
Renate Weber, president of Foundation for an Open Society:
"A President can't invoke the right to private life"
"Traian Basescu should understand a President of state can't invoke the right to private life to defend himself, especially when he is in a public space. He can't make use of this. When he is in public it is normal for journalists to wish to get information, for a President doesn't work 8 hours a day. His attitude is part of his view that the press must serve him and he can't understand the part the press plays in democratic society".
Ana-Maria Mosneagu, executive manager of Pro Democracy Association:
"Have control over his speech"
"Such conflicts are so unfortunate. It is important to emphasize that the communication between the President and citizens is achieved via the media. It is desirable that the President should try to have control over his speech when citizens are present and especially when the media, fond of slips, is there".
Zoe Petre, historian:
"Disrespect for the press"
"This is not the first the President has had such attitude, but it is illustrative of his approach to the press. The President makes use of the press, but he takes it for an instrument, and not for a power in state. It is an instrument he disrespects, which is regrettable. Even if they have a love-hate relationship with the press, politicians generally respect it. In this case, it is disrespect for the press, which seems very unpleasant to me. Journalists must reply, especially after their support for the President".

Ovidiu Banches & C.A.
Ziua Marti 19 Iunie 2007 http://www.ziua.net/english