Namibian media outlets have reacted negatively to inquiries from the U.S. embassy about their affiliations with certain Western publications, particularly in light of the U.S. State Department’s directive to cancel subscriptions to largely recognized media outlets as part of cost-cutting measures. Editors have expressed concern over potential threats to editorial independence and democratic values in Africa.
Namibian media outlets have expressed profound discontent following inquiries from the United States embassy regarding their affiliations with certain Western publications. On February 11, the U.S. State Department mandated its outposts to cancel subscriptions to media that were deemed non-essential, part of a broader initiative to reduce government spending under the Trump administration. Specifically, subscriptions to prominent outlets such as The Economist, The New York Times, Politico, Bloomberg News, Associated Press, and Reuters were targeted for cancellation.
An email sent on February 18 by a U.S. embassy representative requested that The Namibian, an independent newspaper, clarify whether it or its services were affiliated with any of the listed companies and, if so, to describe the nature of that relationship. The communication emphasized that the embassy should not maintain subscriptions to media that conflict with its objectives, which include enhancing national security and prosperity.
The editor of The Namibian, Mr. Tangeni Amupadhi, articulated his astonishment at the blatant attempt to influence the editorial stance of a free press. He declared, “We are an independent news organization. Not even in our country do we allow our government to insist on us having to be aligned with their agenda.” Meanwhile, Ms. Ester Mbathera, assistant editor of the Windhoek Observer, raised concerns that this could undermine editorial independence and questioned whether the U.S. embassy intended to suppress democratic practices in Africa.
Additionally, Mr. Frank Steffen, chair of the Editors’ Forum of Namibia, expressed disbelief that American officials would seek to meddle in the operations of Namibian media, which primarily report on local politics without bias towards international interests. He stated that “Namibians from all walks of life subscribe to the idea of a free press,” indicating the strong sentiment for journalistic independence in the country.
The U.S. embassy in Namibia has acknowledged receipt of inquiries related to the matter but has referred further questions to its Washington D.C. press team, which has yet to respond. It remains uncertain if similar inquiries have been communicated to other diplomatic missions.
The backlash from Namibian media outlets against the U.S. embassy’s inquiries reflects a deep commitment to editorial independence and a free press. Editors have articulated their concern that U.S. actions could impede journalistic freedom and democratic governance in the region. The situation underscores a broader tension surrounding foreign influence in local media and promotes discussions about the autonomy of press organizations in Namibia and beyond.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
