Congratulations GNBA!
Dear Editor
FINALLY, the Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has acted, flexing its muscles in keeping with its mandate as national broadcasting regulator, which is armed with enforcing laws. I refer to, “PPP affiliated radio and TV stations were sanctioned over 53 infractions,’’ News Source, October 17, 2019.
Given the daily lawlessness–buttressed and supported by a political agenda–of a dangerous type bent on subverting the national peace, there were broadcasting entities which believed that their political affiliation gave them licence to be brazenly offensive, inclusive of creating an incendiary environment, through incitement. The fact that both Freedom Radio and MTV, broadcasting arms of the PPP/C, could have a total 53 infractions for 2019, thus far, is evidence of their flagrant disregard for rules and the well-known attitude of, ‘We do what we like because we own Guyana, and rules do not apply to us.”
Freedom Radio, a gross abuser of its responsibility, stands out in chief notoriety. Abysmal as description would be charitable. It has been a tragedy to proper radio culture anywhere, anytime. It would have seemed that it had been its exclusive right to such misuse of the spectrum. Maybe, this radio thought that the GNBA was a toothless animal; but it was just tolerant, perhaps too patient, in allowing these broadcasting media fair time to rein in their dangerous public content, with a view to improved public output.
Editor, again, one observes the classic belief of the PPP/C that those affiliated with its party are not subjected to the laws of this land; and this is referring to its threat to take legal action against the GNBA for doing its professional duty – laying the law down. One is sure that the broadcasting authority would have issued several prior warnings before taking its current action. In so doing, it has finally acted to give effect to such compliance.
It is its statutory right, properly exercised in the name of a wholesome broadcasting environment.
Hats off to the Chairman, Attorney at law Leslie Sobers and staff. They are doing what is required in the best interests of the nation. As a matter of fact, this entity has proven its apolitical credentials by dispensing penalties where these had to be. This is a clear indication that it understands its role as regulator, ensuring an appropriate product.
Therefore, by its impartiality, it has lifted the bar higher in the continuing restorative process of professionalism in a society which had lost its professional comportments for almost two decades.
Regards,
Earl Hamilton
Source: Guyana Chronicle Newspaper
