Hong Kong government to rein in public broadcaster RTHK

New editorial recommendations raise concerns over city's media freedom

20210219 RTHK

RTHK staff last month protested management's move to terminate the contract of a reporter known for her tough questioning of government officials. © AP

MICHELLE CHAN, Nikkei staff writer

HONG KONG -- Hong Kong public broadcaster RTHK is set for an overhaul after a government report slammed the media outlet for "serious inadequacies" over its editorial management and handling of complaints.

In a 154-page report released on Friday, a government-led committee said RTHK has "weak editorial accountability," as editorial decisions are principally made by production units based on their own judgment, leaving senior management in a "passive" position. The broadcaster was also criticized for a "lack of transparency" in handling public complaints.

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