THE call by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for the implementation of some form of regulation for the media in Guyana did not find favour in some quarters and this was quite expected. To no one’s surprise, Kaieteur News, which has the most sullied reputation in terms of its penchant for misinformation and gross violations of basic journalistic tenets, is the lead voice in opposition. It has its turf to protect.
But what immediate recourse is there for the ordinary man against the irresponsible behavior of media practitioners? Think about the damage that is done to the ordinary man whose side of the story Kaieteur News omits or twists in order to ensure continued sales. How can he seek recourse in court if his financial constraints do not allow him to secure proper legal representation?
What then does the ice cream vendor do after his refusal to grant a concession to Freddie Kissoon outside the normal services being offered is met by repeated articles in the latter’s Kaieteur News column deriding his product and services? Think about the impact this may have on this vendor’s ability to conduct business and earn a livelihood. And what about the business man or woman who has earned the ire of a disgruntled media outfit owner who then decides to publish daily negative and slanderous stories about his/her business. Think also about the impact this might have on the person’s ability to earn a livelihood, pay bills such as mortgages etc.
Shouldn’t there be some form of grouping or body that can address the concerns of these people by investigating with the ability to also take punitive action where possible?
