Can you concretely spell out the objectives of the African Communication Regulation Authorities Network to Cameroon?



Our courtesy visit in the country is for a number of reasons. Firstly, Cameroon will in December through the National Communication Council, NCC, take over the Presidency of ACRAN and they can only do this with the support of the government. In this regard therefore, we talked about the need to empower the NCC because it will not only be taking up the function of Presidency but of course will lead the organisation for the next two years. This implies that the plan of action that will be drawn up here in December will be led by them. By that token, they become the standard bearer and are expected to meet up with the necessary responsibilities that accompany the position. We also talked about the standards necessary for a media regulator to attain. This includes independence at all levels ranging from its ability to initiate and implement decisions to financial autonomy. Here again, the Prime Minister was very supportive. The details of our roadmap will be worked out in due course. Basically, we received very good assurance in terms of support as he said media regulators play an important role which really encourages us.



What is your appreciation of the media regulatory organ of Cameroon?



I have very good impressions of the NCC after several consultations with them. The council is led by determined and knowledgeable individuals who have a mastery of the media landscape and its guiding principles. In democratic countries, media regulation is carried out following outlined rules and regulations of international standards. Sanctions and cautions are thus not passed in a biased manner. Rather, those guiding principles are used as a base for judgment. Peter Essoka, who is President of the Council by my judgment, is doing an extremely wonderful job. I have seen some responsible journalism in the press in Cameroon.



Emmanuel KENDEMEH