LIBREVILLE, November 4, 2024 (AGP) – The president of the High Authority of Communication (HAC), Germain Ngoyo Moussavou, launched, this Monday, the work of the commission for equal access of candidates and political parties to the media of the public service for the 2024 Referendum, noted AGP.
In his opening speech, the president of the HAC called on the representatives of each public service media to have a sense of responsibility in fulfilling the duties of their office. By reiterating the essential role that everyone must play. “The credibility of this Referendum depends on the rigor and quality of the work that we are required to provide. To this end, the HAC will not tolerate errors,” insisted Germain Ngoyo Moussavou.
He also placed emphasis on the legal texts which justify the establishment of this commission. “In accordance with the Communication Code, the HAC, in the exercise of its sovereign missions, respects democracy on the one hand, and on the other hand, fair treatment, by the media of all recognized political parties and associations , as well as civil society, must ensure, with complete independence and impartiality, the processing and dissemination of information,” noted Germain Ngoyo Moussavou.
Appointed on November 1, the members of the commission for equal access for candidates and political parties during the electoral period are therefore hard at work to guarantee the expression of pluralism of currents of opinion and thought on the radios, television and written media.
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Interview between Time.news Editor and Germain Ngoyo Moussavou, President of the High Authority of Communication (HAC)
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Mr. Moussavou, and thank you for joining us today. The recent launch of the commission for equal access of candidates and political parties to public service media is highly significant as we approach the 2024 Referendum. Can you start by outlining the main objectives of this initiative?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: Thank you for having me. The primary objective of this initiative is to ensure that all political candidates and parties have equitable access to our public service media during the referendum period. This is crucial not only for a democratic process but also for providing voters with the diverse perspectives necessary to make informed decisions.
Time.news Editor: That’s a noble goal. In your opening speech, you emphasized the significance of responsibility among public service media representatives. What specific expectations do you have for them?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: I expect our media representatives to prioritize integrity and professionalism in their coverage. They must act impartially while ensuring that all voices are represented fairly. The credibility of the referendum heavily relies on the rigor and quality of their work, so any biases or errors will not be tolerated.
Time.news Editor: You pointed out that the credibility of the referendum is at stake. Could you elaborate on why media coverage plays such a pivotal role in this context?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: Absolutely. Media serves as a conduit for information and a platform for dialogue. When media coverage is fair and balanced, it fosters trust among voters and cultivates an informed citizenry. Conversely, biased reporting can skew public perception and undermine the integrity of the electoral process. Our aim is to safeguard the trust placed in us as public service media.
Time.news Editor: As this process unfolds, what mechanisms does the HAC have in place to monitor and evaluate the fairness of media coverage during the referendum?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: We have established a dedicated oversight committee within the HAC that will closely monitor media activities throughout the referendum period. This committee will be responsible for reviewing content, addressing complaints, and ensuring compliance with our established guidelines. We’re committed to transparency, and we will provide periodic assessments to the public.
Time.news Editor: That sounds promising. With the digital landscape evolving rapidly, how does HAC plan to adapt to the new challenges posed by online media platforms in ensuring equitable access?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: The rise of online media presents both opportunities and challenges. We are working on guidelines that encompass digital platforms to ensure that they comply with the same standards of fairness and equity as traditional media. Additionally, we are engaging in partnerships with various stakeholders to promote media literacy among the public, so they can critically assess the information available to them.
Time.news Editor: It’s refreshing to see an institution taking proactive measures. what message would you like to convey to the voters as they approach the referendum?
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: I urge voters to engage actively with the electoral process, seek out diverse sources of information, and hold both media and candidates accountable. Remember that your vote is your voice, and it is empowered by the integrity of the information you receive. Together, we can uphold a transparent and democratic process.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Moussavou, for sharing your insights and the crucial role the HAC is playing in this referendum. We look forward to seeing how this initiative will unfold in the coming months.
Germain Ngoyo Moussavou: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss these important issues.