Journalists claim political interference

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – Journalists at the State-owned media house, Caribbean New Media Group (CNMG), are “gravely concerned” about seemingly increasing political interference at the station, the Trinidad Express Newspaper reported today.Several journalists, who spoke to the Express on the basis of anonymity, claim they have been “mandated to broadcast only good news about the Government”.Fearing that the situation could lead to public misconception the journalists have called for the removal of chief executive officer, Ken Ali as he “is not doing anything to remedy the situation”.The journalists say that while it is their job to explain the Government’s goals and policies, and to help mobilise and reinforce public support necessary for effective political action, they should also have the right to focus attention on controversial policies, expose corruption and hold politicians accountable to public opinion.Responding to the journalists’ claim CNMG said that it adheres rigidly to its editorial policy and the newsroom was recently reassured of this in writing. (CMC)