SECTOR 2 spectrum are published in Bamanan, Soninké and Peul. These initiatives are supported by the distribution network of the Jamana cultural cooperative, which publishes the monthly magazine Jèkabaara in Bamanan. 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: 2.6 (2008 = 2.7 ; 2006 = 3.6) 2.4 The editorial independence of print media published by a public authority is protected adequately against undue political interference The Malian Agency of Press and Publicity or Agence malienne de presse et de publicité (AMAP) is State-owned entity that publishes, among others, the daily newspaper, l’Essor. Some panellists have saluted the mutation this national, daily newspaper has undergone “to submit to the daily taste after 1991”. On paper, the public media does not suffer from abusive political interference. However, it is important to note that no legal provision or regulation explicitly protects such media from political interference. It was pointed out, however, that in his 2009 New Year address to the media, President Amadou Toumani Toure proposed the establishment of a forum on l’Essor, which he claims is the most ‘backward’ media in the sub-region. In reality, other panellists observed that the mindset of AMAP correspondents and staff is still very institutional and pro-Government. AMAP remains a State-run establishment with an administrative character, controlled by an administration counsel, presided over by a designated minister and benefiting from a State grant. L’Essor tends not to cover events that criticise the State. For example, the newspaper refused to publish a sponsored interview with the Public Attorney, which alleged financial fraud on certain services linked to the Ministry of Health. Created by law N°92-036/AN-RM of December 24, 1992, the mission of AMAP is: AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER MALI 2010 97