JAMAICA | PNP Warns Against Politicization of Public Broadcasting and Information Services

Kingston, Jamaica: The People’s National Party (PNP) says it is very concerned about recent media reports regarding leadership changes in Government of Jamaica communication units, beginning with the Jamaica Information Service (JIS).

A statement from the PNP today said "considering the sterling performance of JIS outgoing CEO, Donna-Marie Rowe, we are curious to learn what the new strategy entails, and why she was deemed unqualified to effect these changes."

The Opposition noted that "there is also talk of changes to come at the Public Broadcasting Corporation of Jamaica (PBCJ) and at the Broadcasting Commission (BCJ) - which is a regulatory body. It is concerning that the Minister appears to be intent on politicizing the governance boards, when the law gives the power of appointment to the Governor General specifically to keep these agencies out of the political fray."

The PNP  "reminded the government that these positions are traditionally held by suitably qualified persons with unquestionable integrity. The qualifications of, and selection process for, these new persons must therefore be closely monitored and scrutinized.

The role of these government agencies is to explain and promote the government’s policy and programmes in an unbiased manner. State Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Robert Morgan would be well advised to proceed with caution, as he seeks to make these sweeping changes. He should take heed from the public’s reaction to these developments, as it is essential that the line between promoting government policy and party political interests is not crossed," the PNP statement said.

Meanwhile, the PNP has thanked Mrs. Donna-Marie Rowe, the outgoing CEO of the Jamaican Information Service,  for her decades of impactful work as a public servant and wish her God’s speed in her future endeavours.

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