SECTOR 4 In terms of broadcasting, while panellists noted that the state broadcaster and PCFM can generally be relied upon to provide well researched pieces, for the most part, this media sector also lacks professionalism. “If you listen to two stations on the very same issue, you’ll hear two very different stories, almost as if they were at different press conferences.” The political polarisation of media exacerbates this issue, as different stations often seek to push a certain agenda, and/or reflect their bias in their reporting. Additionally, because many radio stations hire people without the necessary skills, professionalism is often compromised. “They bring people on air, who are then rewarded with free advertising. For example, someone with a poultry business can be hired as a presenter on the radio, so that they can advertise their poultry business and more people will come for eggs and chickens.” “One would think that if the standards are not up to standard, it is because the training is not there. But the issue is that local media don’t even hire these professionals, so those with training in media seek alternative of employment.” MISA Lesotho has made significant efforts to increase the professional standards of media professionals and media houses in the country, but the will (of media houses) to address this problem is lacking. “Media are aware about the low standards in the industry, and we have an Editors Forum, but editors themselves do not attend these meetings, and it seems that there is a deliberate attempt to undermine professional standards, so much so that some say ‘we don’t eat ethics’, and won’t follow ethics because they are not good for business.” 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: 1.8 (2012 = 1.4; 2010 = 3.2; 2008 = 2.1; 2006 = 1.2) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER Lesotho 2015 53