3.2 Broadcasting is regulated by an independent body adequately protected by law against interference whose board is appointed – in an open way – involving civil society and not dominated by any particular political party. There is no public involvement in the selection or nomination of board members to the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA). The chairman and members of the Authority are appointed by the Prime Minister, in consultation with the President of the Republic and the leader of the Opposition. The President declined one of the Prime Minister’s nominations on the basis that the appointee was a member of the PM’s political party. The board consists of eight to ten members and meets once a month to discuss policy issues. Appointments to a public sector board are considered highly prestigious, and it is the norm for potential candidates to lobby for the post well before an election campaign starts. Being appointed is a reward for supporting the party that takes on power. Board members are very well aware of the role they play on these boards, i.e. to endorse government policies and processes. So while the legislation paves the way for an independent authority, actual practice does not allow for neutrality and independence from political interference. The chairman and the board of the Information Communication Technology Authority (ICTA) are appointed in the same manner as the IBA. The ICTA is responsible for issuing radio licences for boats and other wireless radios. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 1.5 (2008 = n/a) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MAURITIUS 2010 39