That the Department of Communication DComm will offer live coverage of Thursday’s parliamentary elections (see Monday newspaper) may have raised an eyebrow or two. Traditionally this was in the hands of private sector entities via outlets like the former St. Maarten Cable TV, now TelTV.
In addition to hourly daytime updates and footage from various polling stations, there will be a live evening broadcast at the House of Parliament with incoming results. Four years ago this was done by the Election Watch Association (EWA).
The announced programme promises interviews with party leaders, the Central Voting Bureau’s former chairman, the Ombudsman, the Secretary General of Parliament, the Civil Registry and focus groups.
Some might wonder whether this can really be considered a Government Information Service task. There could be concern about favouring the current coalition and its Council of Ministers or even attempts to influence voters on their behalf.
However, it regards local communication professionals with respect for the media field who, one assumes, are well aware of the impartial role they need to play on Thursday. Hopefully that will also be respected by all politicians including candidates and their supporters.
So long as those involved remain fair in their questions and comments there is no reason to doubt their professional integrity. Don’t kill the messenger.
