You are correct, your previous statement was illogical.

I have never heard of a company that was restricted from releasing news, especially if material, due to ongoing discussions.

This is especially true if, in fact, they are trying to suppress the stock price, for any reason. That's manipulation, and if this is a free market (which I often doubt) it would not be permitted and for all intents and purposes, is illegal.

We are shareholders, and MUST be informed if a material event occurs, regardless of where the share price stands.

That being said, the company may be restricted from saying who they are in discussions with, and thus not releasing that information, as it is not material until a deal is finalized.

Come on POET, give us something...