SECTOR 1 1.9 Websites and blogs are not required to register with or obtain permission from state authorities. “Once a blog causes a stir, the LCA will try to restrict it.” No one needs permission to set up a web site or a blog. In fact, a panellist pointed out that “New Media is a new phenomenon, and therefore the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA which regulates broadcasting and telecommunications) does not even know that people have blogs. Once a blog causes a stir, the LCA will try to restrict it.” Online forum, topix.com, is popular among Lesotho’s internet users, and hosted heated political debates during the 2007 election campaign. However, panellists felt that discussions on the forum have since become “very vulgar”. 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: 4.7 (2008 = n/a ; 2006 = n/a) 1.10 The state does not seek to block or filter Internet content unless laws provide for restrictions that serve a legitimate interest and are necessary in a democratic society. “There was an attempt by government to shut topix.com down, but they didn’t know how to,” a panellist noted. Civil servants’ internet access is restricted, and this restriction also applies to those working for state media. Government-employed journalists have to ask permission to access particular web sites from their workstations. The Ministry of Communication, Science and Technology hired a consultant to monitor civil 20 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER LESOTHO 2010