In the context of upcoming election debates at the TVP Gdańsk, it would seem that we are faced with a unique chance to look closely at candidates, their demands and a imagination of the improvement of the cities of our region. But you must know something very important, something that no authority in Pomerania will say.
TVP Gdańsk, together with Gdańsk Multimedia Center, presents a series of 4 debates involving candidates for presidents of the 4 largest cities of Pomerania. The first, concerning the election of the president of Gdańsk, takes place on Tuesday, April 2 at 6:30 p.m., and will last a small little than an hour.
At first glance everything seems to be in the best order – electoral debates are a proven way for residents to get to know their candidates better. However, with a closer look at who is behind the organization of this event, there is simply a taste.
Head of TVP3 Gdańsk key
Marek Wałuszko, the head of TVP Gdańsk, and previously an worker of the Gdańsk Multimedia Centre, which is now liable for the distribution of the signal on the Internet, seems to be the key individual in this venture. Moreover, the Gdańsk Multimedia Centre is simply a municipal company, and thus the current president of Gdańsk, Aleksandra Dulkiewicz, who besides competes in elections.
This situation raises questions about the impartiality and transparency of the electoral process. How can we be certain that the debate will be conducted objectively, erstwhile people liable for it are so closely linked to 1 of the candidates?
I look forward to the debate organised by independent institutions
No substance how hard we effort to believe in the integrity and integrity of the organizers, we cannot get free of the impression that they can influence the way candidates and their programs are presented. In an perfect world, electoral debates should be organised by independent institutions capable of ensuring equal treatment for all participants. Question is, do they even exist?
Although it will surely be worth following these debates to learn more about the candidates' plans and ideas, we cannot forget these shortcomings. In the background of all these events, there is simply a somewhat disappointing fact about how hard it is to find a truly neutral and free from influence forum.
Remember, we have the right to ask questions and the work to think critically.
Nevertheless, let it be a reminder that, as citizens, we have not only the right to think critically and to ask questions. Let the upcoming debates be an chance to ask ourselves whether and how the strategy in which we operate can be improved.
Maciej Nadrąt
