By Sara Al-Rubaian and Heba Al-Subeeh, KUNA,
Kuwait : Satellite channels are broadcasting advertisements of National Assembly 2008 elections candidates, invading voters’ homes in a way that it became a main topic of discussions.
The increase of Kuwaiti satellite channels during this election provided a wider space for competition, in addition to being a beneficial tool for candidates to deliver their messages to voters.
Honesty and professionalism are main aspects when organizing television/radio ads for elections, as was stated in the state resolution number 16/2008, “Election coverage should not contain direct or indirect abuse of candidates or others whether in words, symbols or other means, candidates should be given equal air time and opportunities to appear in programs involving debates, dialogues and interviews.” This places the responsibility on program producers to deal with election issues and candidates from a neutral perspective.
Some channels are taking sides while others are not as highlighted by Adel Al-Mukhazeem, Director of Al-Qurain channel, who said that all candidates should be given equal time on air.
Meanwhile, Director of the News sector in Al-Watan television Yousif Al-Nassar said that candidate ads are broadcasted randomly, “We broadcast them for the voters, who have the right to get acquainted with the candidates.” On the other hand, Professor of Mass Communication in Kuwait University Dr. Yousif Al-Failkawi said that viewers at home are more vulnerable to receive ideas and views when they are in a relaxed atmosphere.
He added, satellite channels are the best tool for women voters to be familiar with candidates and review their campaign programs and seminars, as ways of increasing political awareness in the country.
He said, for viewers there are two important aspects that attract them towards a certain channel, the first is the speed of news, and the other is competition.
“Nabeeha Tahalof” channel manager Salman Mayouf said that “Sectarianism and tribalism are issues that constitute a line that cannot be crossed by this channel, as it calls for national unity especially at this stage”.
These channels have adopted young and new Kuwaiti television presenters, with high qualifications and political awareness.