The Presidency has said there are clearly defined platforms for engagements with the media, including formal questions and interactions.

In a media statement, the Presidency said it remains committed to facilitating structured access to information through established channels, which include the Office of the Press Secretary.

The statement by the Presidency comes as senior journalist Jemimah Beukes is alleged to have been escorted out of the State House by security officers after she asked a question to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah.

The question, Beukes said, related to the alleged involvement and controlling of the oil industry by the president's family.

She said she had requested permission from President Nandi-Ndaitwah to pose the question, who then declined, prompting her to ask it anyway, leading to the alleged escorting.

The Presidency stated, "Once the Head of State has indicated that a session has concluded or that questions should be directed through the appropriate official channels, such guidance is expected to be respected."

The Presidency further stated that established security protocols and the professional judgement of trained uniformed personnel will guide the handling of matters.

This is in circumstances where conduct is considered unbecoming of the standards expected within State House or where actions are assessed by the security personnel as potentially compromising the safety, dignity or orderly functions of the Presidency.

The Presidency maintains that it remains committed to a conducive relationship with the press, 'grounded in mutual respect and professionalism'.

"Press, like all democratic rights, is accompanied by responsibilities. These include respect for institutions, processes, observance of house rules and professional conduct within sensitive and secure environments such as State House, where the President must be afforded the space to attend to official duties without disruption," the statement reads.