An analysis of the appointment and functions of the Broadcasting Authority

Abstract

Every state operates through three branches: The Legislative, the Executive and the Judiciary. Constitutional Law is the branch of law which regulates the relationship between both these three branches and the State as a whole, and the people of that State. The whole concept of this relationship is for the branches of the State to serve through a system of checks and balances on each other, with each one of them securing the proper operation of the others. Each of these branches then operates through different organs, most of which are Constitutional bodies. One of these bodies is the Broadcasting Authority, which this study will focus on. The Broadcasting Authority, like all the other bodies through which the state operates, has to stand the test of time. From time to time, discussion naturally arises on the state of affairs of the Broadcasting Authority. The main controversy surrounding the Broadcasting Authority has frequently been related to its autonomy from the Executive. In this study, the author will be researching the Broadcasting Authority and as well as assessing the fundamental question of how independent the Broadcasting Authority really is. Concurrently, it will investigate if the functions it is assigned at law are really followed, if they are in line with the general aims behind the existence of such body, and if they are adhering to the test of time. Primarily, this will prove if what is written down black on white in the law is really being applied in practice, and if changes are necessary, what needs to be changed in order to improve the mode of appointment and functions of the Broadcasting Authority.