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Alert

Political talk show removed from Channel 9 television

(SEAPA/IFEX) - On 15 September 2005, a live political talk show known for its sharp criticism of the government was removed from Channel 9 television for allegedly improper contents, including certain references to the monarchy.

The removal of the programme, Muang Thai Rai Sapda (Thailand Weekly), triggered an uproar among media professionals and civil society as it occurred a few days after entertainment giant GMM Grammy Group made a controversial bid to take over two publishers of prestigious newspapers, Matichon Plc and Post Publishing Plc (see IFEX alert of 14 September 2005).

Programme host Sondhi Limthongkul, who is also founder of the local daily "Pucharkarn", insisted the removal of his programme was politically motivated. The programme had been broadcast live on Channel 9 every Friday from 10:00 to 11:00 p.m. (local time) since 2 July 2003.

He said he would resume his programme on satellite-transmitted channel News One starting the night of 16 September.

MCOT Plc, which owns the channel, issued a statement saying the company had to remove the programme after several warnings to Sondhi to exercise caution when making comments and to adhere to the basic journalistic principle of not violating the rights and freedom of others.

It said Sondhi had made several one-sided attacks on people who had no chance of countering his accusations. According to the statement, in his 8 September programme Sondhi said the appointment of the interim Supreme Patriarch infringed on a royal prerogative and had made reference to the monarchy in a way that might cause public misunderstanding.

"Any reference to the monarchy has to be cautioned since the insitution is not in the position to answer or correct every misunderstanding. Therefore, we have to take action against Muang Thai Rai Sapda," MCOT said.

Reacting to the accusation, Sondhi said MCOT distorted the facts to turn public sentiment against him. "I don't mind being removed because I am critical of the government, but do not say that I infringed on a royal prerogative," he said.

Sondhi said his reference to the monarchy was made with respect.

MCOT was privatised earlier this year as part of its modernisation programme to shake off its image as the government's mouthpiece. The company, which also produced online news and controlled some 100 radio stations nation-wide, was once dubbed "Twilight Zone" for being plagued with intertwined political and commercial interests.