Cabo Verde’s communications regulatory authority, receives ECOWAS observers ahead of presidential poll

The ARC, which is politically independent and autonomous in administrative and financial management, among other functions, ensures compliance with the Electoral Code, including free and fair access of candidates to the public and private media.

Led by a five-member board of three men and two women, it also guarantees freedom of expression and regulates media activities, including during elections.

Arminda Barros, president of the Authority for the past six years, along with other executives, on Wednesday in Praia, briefed the ECOWAS Observers on the operations of the Authority, including media monitoring.

She conducted the visitors round ARC’s facilities such as the monitoring equipment and data centre.

The President explained that while fake news and hate speech were not major problem on the Archipelago, the ARC remained vigilant.

The Athority works with major partners such as the Cabo Verde Journalists Association, AJOC, as well as the television, radio and online publishers to ensure compliance with the Media Code of Conduct and Ethics, and the Electoral Code, especially during elections.