The Campaign for Media Reform group yesterday called for a quick solution to the controversy over a live presidential candidate debate, saying it should be hosted by Public Television Service (PTS).
Coordination meetings on the debate have stalled amid divergent views among the three political parties that have fielded candidates on which media outlet should host it.
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is in favor of a private TV network, while the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) is insisting on PTS, and the People First Party is suggesting two debates, one each on private and public television networks.
In a statement, the media reform group said the presidential candidates are obliged to explain to the electorate their key policy guidelines and should not try to evade a debate because it is the best way to provide such information.
Live debate is “naturally an important way of transmitting key election information, otherwise, how can we implement our democratic system?” the group said.
It said it was shocked and saddened that the arrangements for the presidential debate have hit a snag over which media outlet should host the debate, particularly in light of the many years of struggle by journalism academics and other experts to build a trusted PTS.
The PTS is the fairest and most autonomous communication channel in the nation, so it would be the best choice to host and air the presidential debate, said the group, which comprises media academics and professionals.
It also called for an amendment to the public TV act to allow more funding and other resources to better serve the interests of the public.
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