The 10-day suspension of Richardson and Shumba comes on the back of an unrelated BOCRA investigation into the conduct of the two for allegedly violating the Broadcasting Act Regulations as a result of their interviews with the controversial American Pastor, Anderson last month. In its letter informing Gabz FM of its investigations, BOCRA does not disclose what offence under the Regulations the “Breakfast with Reg” duo are alleged to have committed, confining themselves to a generalised breach of conduct under the Regulations which sets out various different types of conduct that broadcasters are prohibited from conducting. The lack of a specific grounds for the investigation which can lead to the cancellation of the Gabz FM’s broadcasting license is contrary to both local law and provisions of freedom of expression under international law. The lack of detail as to the alleged breach of conduct in the notification of investigations by BOCRA to Gabz FM, is also reflected in the notification of suspension by the radio station to its two employees, as the suspension provides no detail as to what specifically and how the two radio journalist are said to have violated their code of conduct. The right to freedom of speech…
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