Summarised by Centrist
Journalist Karl du Fresne points out the news coverage of the new coalition government’s decisions demonstrates a disturbing level of groupthink among mainstream media outlets.
He criticises the media, in part, for their selective focus on specific issues, such as the repeal of anti-smoking legislation, while ignoring incendiary statements from Māori activist politicians.
Debbie Ngarewa-Packer’s claims of ‘systemic genocide’ and ‘state-sponsored terrorism,’ as well as Willie Jackson’s threats of ‘war’ and civil unrest ‘five times worse’ than the 1981 Springbok tour, went largely unaddressed.
Du Fresne also dives into the media’s handling of Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters’ allegations about media bribery.
The media’s outcry can’t hide the perception that they accepted government funds, opening them to claims of being influenced by the government. “At worst, his use of the word could be described as hyperbole,” he says.
Ultimately du Fresne says the media’s resistance to the new government is a sign of contempt for voters and democracy.
