Table of Contents
The High Authority of Communication (HAC) in Guinea is reinforcing the principle of equal access for all candidates as the nation prepares for its presidential election on December 28. In a meeting held this Friday, the president of the HAC, Boubacar Yacine Diallo, convened with leaders from press associations and directors of both public and private media outlets to underscore their responsibilities during this critical period.
The core message delivered was unequivocal: all nine candidates,as officially recognized by the Supreme Court,must receive equitable coverage. “The principle of equal treatment between candidates is obligatory,” Diallo stated, adding that specific guidelines have been established for both private and public service media.
Balancing Freedom and Obligation in Private Media
The HAC is adopting a posture of “regulated freedom” for private media organizations. While they are granted the liberty to process information, this freedom is contingent upon adherence to ethical standards, professional conduct, and rigorous fact-checking.Crucially, the principle of equality between candidates, as outlined in the decree and Electoral Code, must be upheld.
Diallo acknowledged the financial pressures faced by private media, particularly during election cycles. Though,he emphasized that revenue generation cannot come at the expense of fairness. Drawing a parallel to Côte d’Ivoire, he suggested a model where the cost of distributing candidates’ press releases is standardized. “If candidate X, who has a lot of money, wants to issue a press release, he will pay the same price as the candidate who has less money,” he explained. “This is a rule that the High Authority of Communication has established.”
Lessons Learned from Past Referendums and the threat of Sanctions
Looking back at the previous referendum, Diallo addressed concerns regarding the HAC’s authority to impose sanctions without formal hearings. He clarified that the laws governing campaigns allow for immediate reaction to prevent escalation. “I would like to remind you, because some where surprised during the referendum, that the HAC took sanctions against bodies without having convened them,” he said. “But read the laws that govern campaigns. The reaction is immediate, as everything can degenerate.” He expressed optimism that sanctions will not be necessary this election cycle,emphasizing a commitment to acting as an “arbitrator” and recognizing that “the candidates are all Guineans.”
Strict Ban on Campaign Propaganda During Interactive Broadcasts
The HAC will permit interactive broadcasts, a popular format for political discussion, but with a firm restriction. Propaganda favoring one candidate at the expense of another is strictly prohibi
Why: The High Authority of Communication (HAC) is reinforcing the principle of equal access for all candidates to ensure a fair and transparent presidential election.
Who: the key players are the HAC, led by President Boubacar Yacine Diallo, press associations, directors of public and private media outlets, and the nine candidates recognized by the Supreme Court.
What: The HAC is implementing guidelines for media coverage, emphasizing equal treatment of all candidates, regulating private media freedom, and clarifying its authority to impose sanctions. They are also banning campaign propaganda during interactive broadcasts.
How did it end?: The HAC expressed optimism that sanctions won’t be necessary, aiming to act as an arbitrator. The authority is actively preparing for the December 28 election by setting clear rules and expectations for media conduct.
