GNBA warns radio, TV stations on call-in programmes
The Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) has issued letters to operators reminding them of the need to exercise responsibilities, especially during call-in programmes. “The GNBA is cognizant of the fact that Article 146 of Guyana’s Constitution guarantees Guyanese freedom of expression, which includes freedom of speech and the freedom to receive information, ideas and opinions. However, the GNBA continues to encourage broadcasters to exercise their freedom and rights with responsibility,” a statement said Thursday. “The GNBA does not intend to act outside of the Broadcasting Act and other related subsidiary legislation. Therefore, the Authority holds broadcasters to a higher standard than a person calling in to the studio, during a call in programme.”
According to GNBA, broadcasters are held accountable for the broadcast of content and any violation of the broadcasting legislation. “GNBA states categorically that letters recently issued to broadcasters by the authority have no political undertone or objective as seems to be the perception of the Parliamentary Opposition. The Authority wishes to state unequivocally that it functions as an impartial body and executes its mandate in a lawful and professional manner.” The GNBA said it also wishes to clarify that notices issued to broadcasters for breaches to the Broadcasting Act are not intended in the first instance to lead to the closure of broadcasting stations.
“Notably, the Authority’s statutory mandate is to regulate, supervise and develop the sector. Thus, it is important to emphasize that broadcasters have been improving based on the consistent actions of the Authority. “ GNBA said that broadcasters who have been issued frequencies and licences to broadcast and have not utilized the frequencies in the past six months and have no intentions to utilize the frequencies in the next three months, will be up for review. “The Authority intends to maintain harmonious relations with broadcasters and urges broadcasters to function within the ambits of the law,” the GNBA statement said.
