Information Minister Altynbek Sarsenbaev presented a new draft law on the media on 18 August. Sarsenbaev said that the draft law differs significantly from existing legislation and is based on democratic principles. According to Sarsenbaev, the proposed law simplifies the registration process for media outlets, eliminates criminal penalties for libel, includes mechanisms for guaranteeing free speech and protecting the rights of journalists, and takes away the state\'s right to own controlling stakes in broadcasting companies and news agencies. \"The state and executive branch will not have the right to own controlling stakes in the media except for their own websites, specialized publications, and one television and radio company,\" he said. Sarsenbaev invited journalists and other media professionals to offer their suggestions on improving the draft law, which is slated to come before parliament in January 2005. (Kazinform)