freedom of expression. This points to a dire need for meaningful consultation and public hearings among state institutions, media, civil society, interest groups, etc. Despite these various legal restrictions, however, Namibians seem relatively free to express themselves – more so when they can do so anonymously (particularly when criticising government or the ruling party). Social media is increasingly providing a platform for Namibians to share their views on a wide range of issues, and media houses are working towards greater convergence with social media. Most media houses have a website, a Facebook page, and a Twitter presence, and SMS pages are incredibly popular. The Namibian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) often posts content on YouTube, and with its switchover from analogue to digital, now provides live streaming options on its website. Indeed, digital migration has been heartily welcomed, and the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MICT) can be commended for seamlessly managing the transition. The switchover provides the room for the national broadcaster to introduce increased content in a high quality format. It is important that NBC ensure that the migration does not affect access to information due to affordability problems, and that it deliver on the opportunity to enhance local content that effectively reflects Namibia’s diversity and engages a broad range of voices. “Now we have 3 channels with no content” since the digital switchover, was the view of one panellist. On the subject of NBC, the broadcaster can be commended for its improved governance, and for the stability it has been able to foster over the past four years. It is also important, however, that the broadcaster be brought under the regulation of the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN). The establishment of this regulator has been a positive development during the period under review, and it can be commended for running a highly professional and consultative outfit, despite the political patronage and conflict of interest that seems to exist at the board level. Another development of which the media can be proud, is the way in which coverage on the 2014 National Assembly and Presidential Elections was handled. The Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN) came up with a voluntary electoral code of conduct, by which, it would seem, most media houses abided. However, the NBC’s silence on the attack by a Swapo Councillor on one of its radio producers – in an NBC studio – remains a major concern for media freedom and for the security of journalists. The removal of important talk shows (e.g. The Week that Was and Open File) from the airwaves during the election period also points to some level of intolerance for critical dialogue on government. These events show that the editorial independence of the state media – print and broadcast – remain limited. 8 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NAMIBIA 2015