In a parliamentary question directed to António Leitão Amaro, the PCP Parliamentary Group highlights emerging news about the new governance model for Agência Lusa, following the State’s imminent complete takeover of the company’s capital.
These reports mention plans concerning the appointment of Board members and a consultative body, whose composition has faced criticism.
The PCP emphasizes that, as a state-controlled enterprise, Lusa is not only the sole national news agency but also the primary news service provider to most media outlets, essentially serving as a newsroom for nearly all.
This situation underscores the agency’s duty to deliver an impartial, pluralistic, and impeccable service.
The PCP argues that placing Agência Lusa entirely under State control brings clear obligations and precautions as mandated by the Portuguese Constitution.
Consequently, the government must engage in open debate and public consultation, and submit a legislative proposal to Parliament for Lusa’s new Statutes.
The statutes must detail the composition and appointment procedures for the company’s governing bodies, their responsibilities and powers, and obligations to ensure independence and pluralism, akin to RTP’s structure.
The PCP queries António Leitão Amaro on the preparation of the legislative proposal for Lusa’s new Statutes and what measures the government plans regarding the governing bodies’ composition and appointment procedures.
The party also inquires about the proposed mechanisms to ensure Agência Lusa’s absolute independence and pluralistic information.
Further, the PCP questions the government on the nomination and preliminary opinion procedures for appointing the Director of Information and deputy directors.
In late November, the Minister of the Presidency, António Leitão Amaro, met with Lusa officials and the Regulatory Authority for the Media to discuss the new governance model, aiming to streamline the company’s operations, ensure editorial independence, and uphold the agency’s high professional standards.
Key changes include a three-member executive Board of Directors with four-year terms, streamlined oversight with a single auditor, and parliamentary scrutiny through regular sessions and information sharing.
A pluralistic Advisory Council is also proposed, comprising representatives from various sectors, including three from Parliament, regional entities, two Lusa employees, and five media associations, according to the statement.
