Let’s get something out of the way first. The state-backed Global New Light of Myanmar is not known for its amazing journalism.
Readers over the years have been treated to articles on various vegetables that sold for such in such a price in such in such a town, or for the latest update on which world leader is receiving “felicitations” from the government.
Stories covering the main political happenings of the day are often drenched in government spin.
Also, what’s in that name? Does it have foreign bureaus we are unaware of?
But you have to admit that the quality has gone up a little since it partnered with Global Direct Link in 2013 (hence the addition of “Global” to the title).
Japan’s Kyodo news agency offered training. They bought a bigger and better printing press. The layout and paper quality were no longer fiascos. And word on the street is that they are now hiring a handful of foreign journalists.
The paper was a go-to source in the early stages of the conflict with the Kokang rebels in February and it has done a decent job of keeping up on flooding news.
But one of the more interesting areas of coverage is the election, particularly a small series that now runs on page 3 every day.
It’s called “What they stand for: campaigns aired.”
The government has been broadcasting pre-approved party platforms on state TV and radio lately. But for non-fluent Burmese speakers or for those without much time on their hands, they can be tough to track down or sit through.
The daily series gives a short summary in English of the broadcasts, three of which run every day. A schedule tells you who is up next.
Is it groundbreaking? Not really. But in an election with more than 90 political parties, this sort of thing can be helpful. Today summaries ran for the Chin National Democratic Party, the Wunthanu Democratic Party, and the Modern People Party.
As part of the series, there’s also a little “countdown to the election” figure.
54 days to go folks!
Image of logo / Facebook / Global New Light of Myanmar
