A media authority is an important instrument to establish a democratic society.
Information Minister Barnaba Marial Benjamin told the press after the second reading of the Media Authority Bill at the National Assembly on Monday that he “was extremely happy” with the work done by the committees that prepared the report on the bill.He said the Media Authority Bill respects the Transitional Constitution and represents the foundation of a democratic country.
Dr Marial said the process approved for the nomination of the members of the board lends transparency and confidence to the Authority.
He added that it was important that the media industry self-regulated itself because journalists have a social responsibility and a code of ethics to follow.
Dr Marial said the media bills went through an extensive and rigorous public debate before being tabled for second reading.
He stated that there are 38 FM radio stations operating in the country and the public broadcasters will compete with the independent media houses.
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