Election Propaganda Should be in Turkish

The Radio and Television Higher Board (RTUK) warned radio and television stations to follow the broadcasting principles determined by the Higher Electoral Board (YSK) ahead of the upcoming local elections. Local election boards will evaluate broadcasts by local radio and television stations.

RTUK said it would monitor, inspect and evaluate broadcasts based on the YSK decisions. Local elections will be held on March 28, 2004.

RTUK also reminded radio and television stations that they should end all news, interviews, or advertisements about elections, any public opinion polls, surveys, predictions or mini referendums over the phone, which could all benefit or hurt a political party by affecting voters, 24 hours ahead of the elections.

YSK, through a decision taken on January 6, warned the media on the

following issues:

* Radio and television stations may not broadcast one-sided programs that serve as propaganda for a particular political party.

* Programs about political party campaigns may not be in any language other than Turkish.

* Broadcasts based on race, sexuality, social class or religion, are banned.

* Radio and television stations may not advertise a particular political party or particular candidates.

* The public opinion polls and surveys may only be published until 24 hours before the elections. Radio and television channels should say who conducted the polls, among how many people, and who paid for the survey.

RTUK will execute YSK decisions

RTUK will evaluate reports about broadcasts of national private radio and television stations within five days after the broadcast and present it to the YSK. RTUK has to execute YSK's decision within 24 of being informed about it. Local electoral boards will be monitoring broadcasts by local radio and television stations. (EO/BB/EA/NM)