The Ministry of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital (MCTN) has confirmed the publication, by November 30, 2024, of the official list of media recognized and compliant with the regulations in force in Senegal. This initiative is part of a vast process of restructuring the media sector, led by the President of the Republic Bassirou Diomaye Faye since his election. This reorganization aims to promote ethical, reliable and responsible journalism.
The ministry’s press release specifies that this publication comes in the context of a global review of the media sector, initiated since the first consultation of press stakeholders on June 25. This consultation made it possible to draw up a road map for an in-depth reform, with priority given to the publication of the list of press companies complying with regulations, the revision of the Press Code, as well as the restructuring of the Support Fund and press development.
In the interests of transparency and regulation, the ministry announced that media which are not recognized as complying with the law will receive a formal notice after publication of the list. The companies concerned will then have to comply with the regulations in force to avoid sanctions which could go as far as suspension.
Beyond legal compliance, the ministry insisted on the importance of responsible journalism which contributes to the pacification of the political and social space. Faced with recent incidents, the authorities have noted that certain media have relayed discourses of violence, highlighting the urgency of structuring the sector to promote ethical media practices. In this perspective, the MCTN announced the creation of an interministerial commission bringing together the ministries of Justice, the Interior and Labor, as well as representatives of the National Press Card Commission and CORED, to ensure compliance with standards and regulations in the sector.
Senegal
