SECTOR 3 In terms of accountability, the NBC has to table a report in parliament each year. “In a way we are also accountable through the SMS messages in the print media: we can’t just ignore them. They do make a difference in how we do things. The publicity we receive in the other media is being monitored very closely (by the NBC). There is sensitivity to public criticism.” For example, the presenter on the ‘One on One’ television programme – a former Director-General of the corporation – was replaced after members of the public complained that he was sympathetic towards the ruling party. Members of the public also write in to the NBC and these letters are taken into consideration. However, there is no official complaints mechanism. 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: 2.5 (2005: 1.5; 2007: 1.2; 2009: 1.2) 3.5 Office bearers with the state and political parties, as well as those with a financial interest in the broadcasting industry, are excluded from possible membership on the board of the state/public broadcaster. The 1991 NBC Act excludes members of the National Assembly from sitting on the broadcaster’s board. However, the act says nothing about the appointment of other political office bearers or people with financial interests in the broadcasting sector. AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER NAMIBIA 2011 45