It is this time of electioneering, perhaps appropriately called the “Silly Season”, when Anguilla, like other democratic societies everywhere, becomes caught up in stormy political discourse, conjecture, destructive comment and all the other negative and adjectival phrases one can think about.
Unfortunately, at times some of that type of commentary finds its way in the media which should adopt an independent stance while however keeping the people properly informed about all objective issues of public interest.
The print media, where written expressions, especially, have a lasting presence and effect, must be mindful and careful about what is published.
The Anguillian newspaper, which regards itself as a serious and responsible journal, wishes to inform all political parties, candidates or agents including public relations companies, consultants, publicists and other members of the public, as follows:
No political material will be accepted for publication except the following conditions are met:
• The name, address, telephone number, email and other contact details of the parties, candidates, other writers or senders, must be clearly provided.
• The material must not be libelous, defamatory or otherwise misleading; must not be indecent, plainly mischievous or not provable; must meet the written standards and agreed required length of The Anguillian newspaper; must be subjected to editing for clarity and factual content.
• The Publisher/Editor must have the prerogative to publish or not to publish.
• All requested political and electioneering material cleared for publication, and adjudged to promote a party or candidate, must be paid for either in advance or within a reasonable specified period to defray printing cost.
Notwithstanding the above requirements, The Anguillian newspaper welcomes responsible and objective comment from all parties and individuals involved or otherwise interested in the political process and nation-building.
REMEMBER: BE RESPONSIBLE IN THIS SILLY SEASON. WE OWE IT TO OUR BELOVED ANGUILLA, ITS PEOPLE AND ITS REPUTATION.
