The (FM100) Talkback Host and Government Relations Manager Mr. Cullighan Tanda responded with serious concerns following his three-weeks suspension without pay issued by Kalang Advertising Limited (FM100) on April 22, 2025.
Mr. Tanda responded in a formal letter addressing to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Bill Wartovo, questioning the fairness, transparency, and possible external influence behind the disciplinary action.
The veteran broadcaster’s response highlighted critical procedural issues such as the specific policy he allegedly breached.
Tanda argues that his unpaid suspension was unfair and procedurally flawed, as it was imposed suddenly without prior discussion or chance to respond. He emphasizes that standard disciplinary steps, such as verbal and written warnings and a performance improvement plan were skipped, making the decision seem excessive.
In his case, none of these preliminary measures were followed before resorting to suspension, which he believes undermines standard workplace protocol. He contends that disciplinary action should be based on transparent procedures to ensure fairness.
Tanda’s formal response implied a controversial perspective, highlighting the possibility of political or personal interest holding all the cards in Kalang Advertising Limited.
The formal response argues that his suspension resulted from the alleged lack of prior notice regarding East Sepik Governor Allan Bird’s appearance on the FM100 Talkback Show. Tanda suspected that the suspension may have been driven by external political pressure, quoting CEO Wartovo as saying he had received a call “from the top” expressing dissatisfaction with the interview and that FM100 needed to remember it was “a government station.”
Additionally, Tanda emphasized that this directive appears to contradict the Media Council of PNG’s Code of Ethics and Professional Practice 2024m Part 1 (2) on Accuracy and Balance which warns against the influence of political or personal interference in editorial decisions.
Tanda reiterated that the interview booking was handled by producer Ms. Celina Wollom, according to consistent practice, and that late confirmations are common in live broadcasting. Tanda also pointed out that the CEO met with the Governor before the show and had the chance to raise concerns but did not, questioning the fairness of the suspension.
Tanda further expressed distress over the removal of the interview from FM100’s Facebook page. Despite Mr. Tanda’s significant contribution to building the station’s online presence, he has also been revoked administrative access.
Moreover, Tanda attended a Special Parliamentary Committee on Communications today, Friday 9th May 2025, to address clarity on what had transpired. The Session led by Chairman Marsh Nerewec and Committee Member Governor Sasindran Muthuvel.
During the session, Media Council President Mr. Neville Choi identified that it is not the first time this has happened to media professionals under Telikom PNG. He pointed out that James Guken of EMTV was also terminated after writing an article quoting Allan Bird.
Sharing a mutual understanding on media freedom, the Chairman and Governor Muthuvel will now convene with the full committee to decide on whether there needs to be an inquiry into these matters of Telikom terminating journalists.
Meanwhile, Verteran broadcaster claims the ordeal has caused great unjustly misperception towards his professional and personal reputation, restricting his public and social engagement. He reiterated his commitment to responsible media integrity and freedom, stressing the continued success and public trust in the Talkback Show, recently awarded Best Radio Program at the PNG Media Awards.
Following a lengthy controversial misalignment that led to his unfortunate suspension, he has requested the immediate lifting of his suspension, settlement of withheld salary, a public apology, and a contract review.
The Veteran Broadcaster’s bold response signals deeper concerns about press freedom, transparency, and political influence in Papua New Guinea’s media landscape.