Dear Editor,
I read in one of the newspapers recently about the Opposition Leader, Mr Granger’s complaint about NCN. Mr Granger is trying to convince this nation that the opposition is not allowed access to NCN by this government. Editor, while I am in no way speaking on behalf of NCN, I feel compelled to respond to this blatant act to mislead the Guyanese public.
In April of 2006 I created a programme called ‘Afternoon Delight’ which was aired on VOG from Monday to Friday from 4.30 to 5.30pm. On this programme guests were invited to deal with current affairs and social issues facing our nation. I have interviewed many persons, both in the studio or in the field from the former prime minister of Trinidad and Tobago, Mr Patrick Manning, to primary school kids. Mr Hamilton Green, a former prime minister from the same party Mr Granger now leads, was a guest on my programme a record nine times. No one from the government or the PPP has ever been on my programme more that the current Mayor of Georgetown, Mr Green. Only one organisation came close and it was an organisation promoting abstinence.
It is interesting to note, Editor, that Mr Green is a leading member of Mr Granger’s party.
During my time doing ‘Afternoon Delight’ I have never had an issue with my superiors about Mr Green’s frequent appearance on my show, even thought he was always critical of the government and by extension the PPP. I also wish to note that during the election period of 2006 I invited the then Opposition Leader, Mr Robert Corbin, twice and he never showed up nor did he send a representative. This would have given the opposition an opportunity to push forward their ideas.
Now allow me to fast forward to 2012. NCN has decided to host debates on corruption. I was told that invitations were sent out to APNU and the AFC for them to participate freely in this debate.
Making space to accommodate the other parties tells me that they have been granted access. It is my opinion that the APNU withdrew from the debates for two reasons. One is that they have no evidence to highlight any corrupt practices by this government, and the other is that they have to have reasons why they cut NCN’S budget. I see this as a careful political strategy by APNU to surrender access to this state media because to do otherwise would run counter to their propaganda on the budget cuts.
Yours faithfully,
Ossie Rodgers
Former Broadcaster
NCN Radio
