Television stations awaiting word from Broadcast Authority on licences

Following the expiration of the deadline for the submission of applications for television licences to the newly formed Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBS), a number of stations which had complied are still to have an acknowledgement from the Authority as to whether they could continue to broadcast. September 27, 2012 marked the shutoff date for all existing television station licensees to reapply for permission to broadcast.

The opposition has heavily criticised the composition of the GNBS – formed under the Broadcast Act – and the way that former President Bharrat Jagdeo brought it into being. It is being seen as yet another attempt to muzzle dissenting voices and critics of the Government.

A representative of CNS Channel 6 said that the station applied for a new licence but up to now has not heard any feedback from the Broadcasting Authority. She said that the station was told that the