SECTOR 2 me that is interference. But in recent times the paper has taken a harder line in questioning the government, so it is becoming bolder.” Some panellists suspected this greater boldness was indicative of political infighting within government and could itself be a result of political interference. “We can say editors are now braver, but there is an element of protection because the person in charge of the company has an interest in a more critical line. It’s a case of ants benefiting from fighting between elephants.” Tibiyo Taka Ngwane’s current chief executive officer (CEO) is a former prime minister. “Sometimes people who are ‘labelled’ [progressive] are not given space to write an opinion, but (news) coverage is not a problem. ” Some panellists felt that the Observer does not report on those campaigning for change in the country, while others said the paper does cover these “progressive groups”. “Sometimes people who are ‘labelled’ [progressive] are not given space to write an opinion, but (news) coverage is not a problem. The strikes are covered.” This coverage was not balanced, some panellists countered. “Before April 12, the protests were not the main news in the Observer. They (the Observer) tell the story but it will be downplayed.” Other panellists disagreed. “Whether it is front page or not is another issue.” The Observer is a profitable newspaper that does not rely on subventions from the parent company, and this provides the paper with some protection. 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: 2.9 (2009: 1.7; 2007: 2.4; 2005: 1.9) AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER SWAZILAND 2011 33