A case for the MMU

Jan 07, 2012 Letters

Dear Editor,
Guyana’s media landscape can be considered vast in comparison to its population size.
The landscape is also expected to be expanded through the introduction of privately owned radio stations in the near future.
Ensuring that these various media entities operate responsibly becomes a challenge and as such a credible regulatory body needs to be in place to carry out this function.
GECOM’s Media Monitoring Unit has been recognized as a reputable, credible and independent body when it comes to monitoring the media during the pre-, peri- and post-elections periods.
The Unit utilized the Media Code of Conduct, a document agreed to by the media in Guyana, as the mechanism through which the media are held accountable.
It has been reported that despite several passionate pleas by the Chairman of GECOM, Dr. Steve Surujbally, for the institutionalization of the MMU, the unit will be closed on December 31, 2011.
This does not augur well for the media landscape locally. The MMU is not only effective during the elections season, as would be when local government elections are held, but would also serve to ensure media responsibility continuously.
It must be noted that the Media Code of Conduct is a non-binding code; as such the MMU only has the power to present its findings based on its stated methodology.
The MMU is however not above reproach since this publication along with the Stabroek News had reason to question aspects of the MMU’s methodology.
Those issues were addressed by the unit along with assurances that future queries are encouraged and will be addressed.
The MMU also found favour with several of the foreign observer missions which were present during the elections.
The MMU plays a critical role in our maturing democracy since it keeps the custodians of information responsible. There are examples which show clearly what can take place when there is an unbridled media.
The Media Code of Conduct is such a groundbreaking document that several countries have used it as a template to regulate the media and have set up bodies similar to the MMU to monitor this critical industry.
Conflict prevention is the most difficult aspect of conflict resolution to measure, but it is also the most cherished.
I wish to make the argument that the role the MMU plays in preventing conflict in our country is immeasurable and precious.
It is because of this vital role I call on the policymakers to reconsider the closure of this vital national institution.
Lisa Roberts

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