Ankara: Two appearances in three days, over two hundred CRTV staff mobilized, three satellite trucks, mobile control rooms, and fiber lines from Camtel were all deployed, yet Cameroonians were left with minimal coverage during crucial national events. The public broadcaster, CRTV, faces criticism for its limited and controlled broadcast, sparking questions about its accountability and purpose. According to Cameroon News Agency, the controversy began when President Paul Biya returned on August 20 after a 74-day absence. CRTV orchestrated an extensive media operation but failed to provide viewers with comprehensive coverage. Essential moments, such as the President's descent from the aircraft or his interactions with officials, were notably absent. Instead, the broadcast consisted of brief, controlled images that left viewers dissatisfied and questioning the authenticity of what was shown. Fact-checkers later confirmed suspicions, flagging fabricated images that filled the gaps left by CRTV's selective coverag e. Further exacerbating public frustration, during a ceremony honoring the country's Lionesses, who became African champions for the first time in 40 years, CRTV cut the broadcast at pivotal moments. Cellphones were banned inside the venue, effectively leaving CRTV as the sole source of footage. The lack of independent recordings has fueled allegations of manipulation, as the state broadcaster appeared to control the narrative by editing its feed, rather than providing transparent coverage. Instances of technical failures have also been a recurring issue. Back in April, during the visit of the Holy Father, CRTV's signal froze for five minutes, leading to an apology from the Director General, who attributed the mishap to internet issues. However, such excuses are increasingly being viewed as politically motivated decisions rather than genuine technical difficulties. The underlying issue is not just about the technical execution but rather the public's right to know. Dr. Eugene Ateh, a Cameroonian writer and community organizer, emphasizes the importance of transparency, arguing that the state broadcaster, financed by taxpayers, should serve the public interest rather than political agendas. He calls for CRTV's Director General, Charles Ndongo, to step aside, asserting that the broadcaster should not be a tool for the party or palace but rather a platform for honest and comprehensive public discourse. In light of these events, the Cameroonian public demands answers from CRTV. They question the reasoning behind deploying extensive live apparatus only to deliver fragmented coverage, the authority behind unannounced cuts during national events, and the prohibition of independent recordings at public venues. The need for transparency is paramount, and until CRTV addresses these issues, the public will continue to question what is being hidden from them.
Menu