SECTOR 2 2.4 The editorial independence of print media published by a public authority is protected adequately against undue political interference. None of the state-owned print media entities (Daily News, Kutlwano, and the Botswana press agency) have independent boards of directors, and there is direct political interference in editorial matters. Currently state media is presided over by the Office of the President, although it used to fall under the Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology. “It’s very clear: individual journalists from government media are not allowed to think... there is no guarantee of editorial independence.” An article about the Botswana government giving P1 million to Japan, following its devastating earthquake and tsunami in March 2011, was withdrawn from the Daily News by “higher authorities” as it was felt this would not be welcomed during the public workers strike. “It’s very clear: individual journalists from government media are not allowed to think... ” Staff on state-run newspapers and the press agency are employed under the Public Service Act and are told they are civil servants and not journalists. These media entities operate like government organs: professionalism and the media code of ethics are not respected. “They do what the state tells them to do and toe the line that the state wants them to.” 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: 1.0 (2005 = 1.2; 2007 = 1.6; 2009 = 1.0) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2011 29