Guyana TV station suspension concerns watchdog group

The Paris-based media watchdog group, Reporters without Borders, has criticised the decision of the Government of Guyana to suspend the licence of a privately-owned television station for four months.



Last weekend, President Bharrat Jagdeo announced the suspension of CNS TV6 for allegedly broadcasting libellous statements in a commentary four months ago.



The media group has described the presidential order as reprehensible, as the order was issued in the run-up to regional and general elections, which must be held by December 28.



Reporters without Borders said the fact that the station is owned by Chandra Narine Charma, leader of the opposition Justice for All Party, is indicative that the suspension is an attack on pluralism and democratic debate.



Meanwhile, co-owner of the TV station, Savitrie Singh-Sharma, said the station could appeal the suspension to the new president after the elections.



She disclosed the television station could lose an estimated US$29 million monthly, and it plans to lay off at least 28 workers as a result of the suspension.



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