Political television stations winning more viewers
The number of people watching the anti-government Blue Sky TV channel has risen significantly over the past two weeks because mainstream mass media has not been giving much prominence to the anti-amnesty bill demonstrations, the channel's managing direct
He went on to say that his satellite channel was gaining popularity because it provided up-to-date, live reports on what was happening at the different protest sites. However, he denied that Blue Sky, like its adversary the red-shirt Asia Update, was being used as an outlet for hate speech and propaganda.
When asked if the channel would continue broadcasting even if speakers indulge in hate speech on stage, he said what they say had nothing to do with the station’s policy.
“We’re not the ones doing it, right?” Vittayen asked.
Meanwhile, former Chulalong-korn University lecturer of communication arts Ubonrat Siriyuwasak said different political groups were using TV stations to advertise their political causes, which in turn was inciting unbalanced passion that could be dangerous to society. Ubonrat said these so-called political TV channels were today’s equivalent of political pamphlets.
“Television will be utilised [for political causes] for a while yet.
“This may not lead to a state where [viewers] use reason. Instead it’s being replaced by emotional satisfaction,” she said, adding that the recent decision by Asia Update to remove speeches by red-shirt leaders who opposed the controversial blanket amnesty bill resulted in a drop in its viewership.
Jom Petchpradab, a host at the pro-government Voice TV which is owned by Thaksin Shinawatra’s son Panthongtae, said the incident at Asia Update showed how some political TV stations will not tolerate dissent.
However, Jom insisted that there was more freedom at Voice TV to express differing views, though people had to be careful and tactful when expressing them.
“There’s no order [for journalists who disagree to keep quiet] but there are signs that not too much attention should be paid to opposition [to the bill]. It’s not come to a point where everyone is afraid [to air their views], but there’s a clear policy that they must be careful,” Jom said.
He also accused channels like Blue Sky of being used for the mobilisation of the masses, a charge that was denied by Vittayen.
“It is now used as a tool to overthrow the administration by inciting emotions,” Jom claimed.
