The article that I am offering you today highlights a recent event in Tunisia which provoked strong reactions: the summoning of the CEO of national television by President Kaïs Saïed. This meeting between the two parties constitutes a first in the history of Tunisian television, which has always been subject to pressure from leaders.
Since the revolution in 2011, the Tunisian public channel has been renamed Tunisian National Television and has seen many CEOs come and go with the hope of achieving true independence. However, despite these changes at the head of the channel, independence from those in power remains a challenge.
During this summons, President Saïed criticized the CEO of national television for broadcasting programs that do not meet the expectations of the Tunisian public. He said these programs do not represent an editorial line, but rather the forces that oppose freedom and the national liberation movement. The president also suggested editorial themes focused on the 2011 revolution, emphasizing the need to look to the future rather than remaining focused on the past.
This questioning of the channel’s programming is part of a broader context of censorship of public media in Tunisia and attacks on press freedom. Tunisian journalists have long denounced these violations of the principles of pluralism, diversity and objectivity. The Tunisian Journalists’ Union strongly condemned the president’s intervention in the work of the public channel and called for respecting its independence.
This affair raises essential questions about press freedom in Tunisia and the need to guarantee the independence of the media from political power. The plurality of voices and diversity of opinions are essential pillars of a democratic society. It is essential to preserve these fundamental values to ensure a balanced debate and quality information.
In conclusion, the summoning of the CEO of Tunisian national television by President Kaïs Saïed raises concerns about press freedom in Tunisia. It is essential to preserve the independence of the media and guarantee the diversity of voices to ensure democratic and informed debate within Tunisian society. The defense of press freedom remains a priority for building an open and democratic society.