MAURITIUS SCORES: Individual scores: 2,5,2,2,2,2,2,2,2,2 Average score: 2.3 3.7 The editorial independence of the public broadcaster from commercial pressure and political influence is guaranteed by law and practiced. ANALYSIS: The editorial independence of the MBC is far from being guaranteed. It is alleged that the board interferes directly in editorial decisions, right down to the selection of studio guests for talk shows. The Director General, appointed by the Prime Minister, also “knows what is expected from him”. And the Director of News, a journalist with close links to and sometimes a close relationship with the ruling party, is said to take orders “from above” before allowing sensitive stories to be reported. The popular perception that the MBC is pro-government is accepted as something quite normal, even by the opposition. Each time government changes, leading journalists and news presenters who were known to have had close ties with the outgoing ruling parties are transferred or “promoted” and some are fired. A previous government appointed a retired Chief Justice to compile and write a report on the MBC. He made several recommendations, including the proposal to turn the MBC into an independent body. The report has never been implemented or even considered. African Media Barometer - Mauritius 2008 23