Dear Sir
I was astonished and appalled as I listened to a radio talk programme, on 92.9 FM Radio on Thursday 12th March, 2015, which commenced about 8 pm. I was so embarrassed and horrified that my fellow Anguillians could behave in such a despicable manner. Several other persons have also indicated their abhorrence with the conduct of the hosts.
I realized that what I was hearing was an outright attack, or revenge strategy, on an individual for sharing his views about matters that we, as Anguillians, should all be very concerned about especially the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank’s takeover of our indigenous banks. It also became apparent to me that one can no longer express an opinion if it is contrary to this Government’s opinion and rhetoric. Yet, prior to this Government taking office, we were subjected to various radio talk shows for years informing us of all the ills of the AUF Government – leading up to the 2010 election – so I can only conclude that freedom of expression is just for one party and its supporters.
May I remind you, as Anguillians, and those who continue to use and abuse the airwaves to insult, deprave, discredit – and those who actually giggle and enjoy listening to this garbage – that it only became possible because the AUF Government in 2000 decided to lift the monopoly on radio stations and allow this influx of private radio stations. I hope persons remember the debacle of Mr. Hughes and the “Talk Your Mind Program”.
Finally, a note to radio station owners: please be more vigilant in what your radio stations are actually disseminating on the airways. It is not journalism. I challenge you to raise the level of reporting and interviewing etc. Think about quality and not triviality. Remember freedom of expression is for everyone. However, please conduct yourselves in a professional manner. Remember our children, the future of Anguilla, as well as persons outside of Anguilla, are also listening. We have some bright young minds in our society – do not continue to disappoint them with this sort of behavior. For more objectivity, education and professionalism, listen to Radio Anguilla (which has withstood the attacks of most of these private radio talk show hosts) and see how it is done!!!!!
Yours faithfully
A Registered Voter
