The High Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) has reviewed its measures taken on May 22 against the television channel CML13TV, the host of the special “Free Opinion” edition, as well as his guests. This reassessment stems from heated debates that took place on May 26 during a plenary gathering of senior advisers.
For the CML13TV channel, the number of suspension days was reduced from 45 to 30 days, while that of the show’s host was reduced from 72 days to 90 days. As for the guests Mike Mukebayi and Daniel Safu, the council decided to prohibit them from appearing in the media broadcasting in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for a period of 90 days.
The CSAC also called on all the media to collaborate for the strict application of these measures.
The CSAC also announced, in one of its press releases, that the program presented by Louis-France Kuzikesa had conveyed hate speech and remarks inciting violence against a tribe and personal attacks.
At the same time, the Bureau of the CSAC recommended to the parliamentary chambers concerned to take disciplinary measures against the guests Mike Mukebayi and Daniel Safu, considering that they threatened national cohesion.
The measures taken by the CSAC have provoked strong reactions in the country, in particular because of the number of suspensions imposed. The decision to ban guests from appearing on media broadcasting in the DRC for 90 days also sparked debate, with some saying it undermined freedom of expression.
However, it is important to emphasize that the prevention and repression of hate speech in the media undoubtedly contributes to the preservation of national cohesion and the promotion of unity in a country. Compliance with strict standards and rules by the media is a guarantee of quality and credibility in a democratic society.
Furthermore, it is necessary to underline the importance of the role of the media in the construction of a just and balanced society. Media professionals have a duty of responsibility towards society, objectivity and impartiality, as well as an obligation to verify the accuracy and relevance of the information they disseminate.
It is therefore important to welcome the measures taken by the CSAC, which contribute to strengthening ethical standards in the media.