The city of Andenne multiplies pressure on journalists

Andenne’s Troubled Relationship with Local Journalism

The city of Andenne, located in the Wallonia region of Belgium, has been embroiled in a series of controversies involving its interactions with local journalists. These incidents raise concerns about the city’s commitment to clarity, freedom of the press, and responsible use of taxpayer funds.

Legal Battles and Public Funds

one contentious issue involves the city’s decision to pursue legal action against a journalist, utilizing taxpayer money to defend the honor of a former mayor.Despite calls from organizations like the European Federation of Journalists (FEJ) to reconsider, the majority coalition in Andenne, comprised of the PS and MR parties, proceeded with the lawsuit.This raises questions about the appropriate allocation of public funds and the potential chilling effect on investigative journalism.

“Public money cannot be used to defend the honor of a politician, yet the PS and the MR let do,” states a recent article highlighting the controversy. This decision underscores the delicate balance between protecting individual reputations and upholding the principles of a free press.

Press Freedom Under Scrutiny

Beyond the legal battles, the city’s actions have drawn criticism from the Journalistic Ethics Council (CDJ) regarding attempts to suppress critical reporting. During the recent municipal elections, Andenne attempted to remove a video capsule produced by local television station Bouké, citing concerns about its content. The CDJ condemned these actions, stating, “Pressures exerted to obtain the deletion of the capsule in question of the site and the Facebook page of the media, to the detriment of the right to information of the public.”

Moreover, the CDJ highlighted attempts by the city to replace the journalist responsible for the video capsule with someone else for an electoral debate, suggesting an attempt to control the narrative surrounding the campaign. These actions raise concerns about the city’s willingness to engage in open and obvious dialog with local media outlets.

Financial Implications

Adding fuel to the fire, Andenne has decided to withdraw its subsidy from Bouké television for 2025. While citing budgetary constraints, the CDJ argues that this decision is directly linked to Bouké’s critical reporting and lack of cooperation with the city’s agenda. This financial penalty further jeopardizes the financial stability of local media outlets and raises concerns about the potential for retaliation against independent journalism.

“By imperatives of economy, but also by the action they take to court against the video capsule and the lack of dialogue and monitoring at the municipal level on the choices made in recent years by the media in matters collaborations and partnerships,” the CDJ denounced.

A Call for Accountability

These events in Andenne serve as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting freedom of the press and ensuring responsible use of public funds. Transparency,accountability,and respect for journalistic integrity are crucial for a healthy democracy. Citizens deserve access to accurate and unbiased information, and local governments must prioritize ethical conduct and constructive engagement with media outlets.

moving forward, it is essential for Andenne’s leadership to engage in meaningful dialogue with journalists, address concerns regarding transparency, and ensure that taxpayer dollars are not used to suppress dissenting voices. Fostering a climate of trust and collaboration between the government and the media is vital for the well-being of the community.

What specific actions can Andenne take to improve its relationship with local journalism and ultimately restore public trust in its commitment to press freedom?

An In-Depth Dialog: Addressing Andenne’s Press Liberty Predicament

Archyde News editor interviews
M. Bernard Lacroix,Director of the Wallonia Journalists’ Association (AJW)

Andenne’s Contentious Legal Battle: A Misallocation of Funds?

Archyde: M. Lacroix, the city of Andenne recently pursued legal action against a journalist, using public funds to defend the former mayor’s honor. How do you view this decision?

M. Lacroix: This decision is alarming. Public funds should be allocated to serve the community’s best interests, not to defend individual reputations, especially those of former politicians. Andenne’s majority coalition is infringing on journalists’ rights and undermining press freedom.

Press Freedom Under Siege: Andenne’s Attempts to Control Narratives

Archyde: The Journalistic ethics Council has condemned Andenne’s attempts to suppress critical reporting. Can you elaborate on these tactics and their impact on local journalism?

M. Lacroix: Indeed, the city attempted to remove a video capsule critical of its policies during election time, demonstrating a lack of respect for the public’s right to data. Moreover, replacing a journalist with a more “compliant” one for an electoral debate shows intent to control the narrative. Such actions stifle objective reporting and democratic discourse. Local media outlets should not beMuziwed by municipal authorities; they serve as public servants, not political mouthpieces.

Financial Repercussions: Revoking Subsidies and Retaliation Fears

Archyde: Andenne has withdrawn its subsidy from Bouké television, the outlet critical of its policies. Isn’t this a form of retaliation against self-reliant journalism?

M. Lacroix: It’s challenging to view this decision as anything but retaliatory. budgetary constraints alone cannot explain why Bouké, which has been critical of Andenne’s policies, is targeted. This action puts the financial stability of local media at risk and sends a chilling message to other outlets: toe the line or face consequences. It’s crucial for cities to support local media, not undermine them.

recoveries for andenne: Thoughts on A Way Forward

Archyde: M. Lacroix, what steps should Andenne take to improve its relationship with local journalism and restore public trust in its commitment to press freedom?

M.Lacroix: Transparency and accountability are key. The city should engage in open dialogue with journalists, address concerns regarding their policy transparency, and ensure taxpayer dollars are not used against dissenting voices. Let’s foster a climate of trust, where local governments support and collaborate with media outlets, not suppress them. and to our readers, let’s not forget: a vibrant, independent local press is the lifeline of our democracy.

Join the conversation: How should andenne navigate its troubled relationship with local journalism? Leave your comments below.