SECTOR 3 3.4 The state/public broadcaster is accountable to the public through an independent board which is representative of society at large and selected in an independent, open and transparent manner. Television Togolaise (TVT), radio Lomé and radio Kara are state broadcasters. They have no board of directors. The directors are directly nominated by the Council of Ministers. But the panel asserts that a bill is being drafted to change public media into an Office with a board of directors. 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: 1.2 (2013 = 1.0; 2010 = 1.0) 3.5 The editorial independence of the state/public broadcaster from political influence is guaranteed by law and practised to ensure balanced and fair news and current affairs programmes. In principle, the law guarantees diversity and equity. According to Article 27 of the Organic Law on HAAC, “The High authority ensures equitable access to the public media by all political parties and associations”. But the panel is of the opinion that TVT does not ensure equitable access or balance in regard to politics. Furthermore, in order to enjoy TVT media coverage, it is not only necessary to send a request, but also to make transport available for the reporting team. This lead a member of the panel to infer that the lack of financial resources is not conducive to balanced and impartial news broadcasting. TVT journalists, who cover activities of critical importance to the ruling party, often tell the organisers quite openly that the report may not be broadcast. 96 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER TOGO 2017