IBA CALLS FOR OBJECTIVE ELECTIONS COVERAGE

JOHANNESBURG Sept 28 Sapa

The Independent Broadcasting Authority on Thursday called on
broadcasters to ensure objective and balanced coverage of the
coming local government elections.

"Community broadcasters, by definition, reflect the views and 
opinions of their audiences," e-Matabane and Peter de Klerk said in 
a statement. "However, we do expect of them to convey the wider 
spectrum of ideas in a fair, balanced and objective manner."

Amos Vilakazi, the IB's head of communications, said the IBA's
monitoring and complaints department would be vigilant in ensuring
broadcasters complied with the IBA Act.

The department would conduct an independent monitoring service
of all stations on air, he said.

He invited parties or individuals with specific complaints to
contact the IBA.

Vilakazi stressed the IBA had not been responsible for banning
party-political advertising during the local government elections.

The IBA operated within the parameters of relevant legislation,
and an amendment to the IBA Act would be required for such
advertising to be allowed, he said.