Kingsley 'Ragashanti' Stewart

The People's National Party (PNP) is urging the Government to proceed with caution as it seeks to rule on a recommendation from the Broadcasting Commission to suspend the licence to operate News Talk 93.

In a statement issued yesterday by Lisa Hanna, Opposition Spokesperson on Information and Youth the PNP, said, "Like all Jamaicans, we expect that media houses, media practitioners and broadcasters will utilise the air waves responsibly to broadcast information covering sport, music, business, education and current affairs that will contribute positively to social education.

"We are aware of statements that have been linked to at least one broadcaster at New Talk 93 FM that may be deemed as irresponsible and unacceptable. Sanctions may be appropriate for those statements to ensure that all broadcasters and indeed all journalists and the entities that they work for are guided to monitor the standards that reflect responsible journalism and proper application of press freedom.

The party expressed concern about the extent to which the Government might choose to impose a sanction on the radio station.

The Broadcasting Commission earlier this month submitted a recommendation to Information Minister Olivia 'Babsy' Grange for its licence to operate be suspended.

The commission is particularly concerned about adverse comments supposedly made by one of its talk show hosts, Dr Kingsley Stewart, popularly known 'Ragashanti'.

The matter is to be deliberated on by Cabinet.

Reflect democracy

According to the PNP, "Our departure on this matter is the extent of those sanctions. We advise the Government that the actions of the state must reflect established trends of modern democratic society. The Opposition does not support any action or move against press freedom. However, we believe that with freedom comes responsibility and therefore, the sanctions should be applied according to the gravity of the offence.

"We respect the principles that guide balanced regulation in Jamaica. Indeed, regulators should receive support and strengthening by all citizens, the Government and the Opposition," the statement said.