Sector 3: Broadcasting regulation is transparent and independent, the state broadcaster is transformed into a truly public broadcaster 3.1 Broadcasting is regulated by an independent body adequately protected against interference, particularly of a political and economic nature. ANALYSIS: The Namibian Communications Commission (NCC) is ostensibly an independent broadcasting regulator. However, the Minister of Information and Broadcasting is solely responsible for appointing NCC councillors, and as a result a certain level of political interference is possible. It is worth noting that David Imbili, the present chairperson of the NCC, has no media experience although he is particularly well connected politically, being the son-in-law of the former Namibian president, Sam Nujoma. As a result, the credibility of the NCC is tainted and this could compromise the body’s theoretical independence. It is also questionable whether the commissioners of the NCC are equipped to guide developments in the media landscape. The NCC does not appear to be a proactive body in terms of monitoring adherence to its regulations. It has no monitoring department but waits for complaints before taking action. It was felt that there should be an independent broadcasting complaints commission. The NCC does not regulate the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC). SCORES: Individual scores: 2, 2, 1, 2, 2, 3, 1, 2, 2 Average score: 1.9 (2005 = 1.8) 3.2 The appointments procedure for members of the regulatory body is open and transparent and involves civil society. ANALYSIS: The Minister of Information and Broadcasting appoints NCC members at her own personal discretion. The positions are not advertised. This procedure is neither open nor transparent and does not involve external and independent input from civil society. It is notable that the current Minister of Information, Netumbo Nandi Ndaitwah, is also the Secretary-General for Information of the ruling party, SWAPO, and it is not always clear whether she is speaking in her capacity as minister or as a senior member of SWAPO. This raises the question: how independent and neutral is she? And from whom does she take her orders? MISA has raised the issue with her, to no avail. SCORES: Individual scores: 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, 1, 1, 1 Average score: 1.2 (2005 = 1.1) So This Is Democracy? 2007 -206- Media Institute of Southern Africa