SECTOR 3 3.6 The editorial independence of the state/public broadcaster from political influence is guaranteed by law and practised. “When the state directs its own organ to do something, it is not seen as interference. The state is simply operating its own machinery.” There is no legislation to guarantee the editorial independence of the state broadcaster in Botswana from political influence. The state broadcaster is under the control of the Office of the President. “When the state directs its own organ to do something, it is not seen as interference. The state is simply operating its own machinery.” State house is known to give directives to the state broadcaster about what topics to cover and not to cover. 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 = n/a; 2007 = n/a; 2009 = 1.0) 3.7 The state/public broadcaster is adequately funded in a manner that protects it from arbitrary interference through its budget and from commercial pressure. The state broadcaster is funded wholly by a budget drawn from taxpayers. Money made by the broadcaster through advertising or sponsorship goes directly into state coffers. The state broadcaster does not serve the public interest, but that of the state. 44 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER BOTSWANA 2011