"Filippo's Politarena": Bakom initiates investigations into broadcasting concept
The Federal Office of Communications is taking a close look at the concept for the program «Filippos Politarena,» planned by the private broadcaster Sat.1 Schweiz.
OFCOM has initiated clarifications regarding the broadcasting concept. Spokeswoman Deborah Murith confirmed to the news agency a report by the Tages-Anzeiger and Bund newspapers on Monday. It is being investigated whether the new "Arena" contains unauthorized political advertising or surreptitious advertising. The Radio and Television Act prohibits advertising for holders of political office and for candidates. Presenter Leutenegger is running for another term in the National Council in the fall. Advertising for political parties is also prohibited.
If there is a need for action, an in-depth legal examination will be carried out in a supervisory procedure, said Murith. If, on the other hand, it is a question of opinion-forming among the public and guidelines on editorial content, the Independent Complaints Authority for Radio and Television is responsible.
The "Arena" will be balanced, Mike Gut, Managing Director of Sat.1 Switzerland, told SDA. All parties and points of view will be represented. The panelists would be selected by the editorial team. The fact that Leutenegger himself is running is no obstacle. He is recognized as the best in his field and, as a presenter, cannot express his own points of view, said Gut.
> Sat.1: FDP National Councillor Filippo Leutenegger presents Arena
