Broadcasters in Romania fined for misinforming on protests

Romania’s National Audiovisual Council (CNA) sanctioned yesterday the broadcasters Romania TV and Antena 3 with fines of RON 50,000 (EUR 11,055) each, for irregularities in reflecting the massive protests against the ordinance amending Romania’s criminal laws. Both Romania TV and Antena 3 said that the protests were, in fact, a coup, and that protesters were brought by the Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI). The broadcasters also suggested that the fire which started in a club in Bucharest at the end of January was intentionally set up, in order to help boost the protests. They also suggested that the same happened at Colectiv club, when a fire killed more than 60 people. The event led to massive protests in Bucharest and the resignation of former Prime Minister Victor Ponta. Several allegations were made afterwards that the fire was started on purpose, to remove Ponta. In total, CNA received 690 complaints on how these broadcasters presented the events. Six of the CNA members approved the sanctions, whereas three of them voted against them. editor@romania-insider.com