SECTOR 3 3.5 The editorial independence of the state/public broadcaster from political influence is guaranteed by law and practised to ensure balanced and fair news and current affairs programmes. CRTV was created to promote government action and lacks editorial independence. Because of the blurred line between the government and the ruling party – the Cameroon People’s Democratic Party (CPDM), CRTV often comes under undue political influence. The state broadcaster dedicates more airtime to covering the ruling party, to the detriment of other political parties. Journalists often wait for the “green light” and “orientation from above” to cover certain sensitive issues such as the fight against the Boko Haram insurgency in the north of the country or the actions of the head of state. “A minister can call CRTV to place an embargo on the coverage of an issue.” Under these circumstances, CRTV journalists often practice selfcensorship to avoid running into problems. Outside political reporting, CRTV journalists exercise a greater level of editorial independence. There are several programmes like Cameroon Calling, Scene de Presse and Morning Safari that are noted for their candidness, even though anchors often run into problems because of the facts and views aired on the programmes. 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: 116 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER CAMEROON 2014 1.9 (2008=n/a; 2011=n/a)