Two of the BBC’s top executives have stepped down following accusations that Panorama’s recent documentary misleadingly edited former U.S. President Donald Trump’s speech on January 6, 2021.
Former President Trump seized on the resignations as proof of ‘corrupt journalists’, accusing them of trying to skew U.S. elections and undermining democratic processes.
In an official statement, Director-General Tim Davie said, ‘Like all public organizations, the BBC is not perfect, and we must always be open, transparent, and accountable. While not being the only reason, the current debate around BBC News has understandably contributed to my decision. I have to take ultimate responsibility.’ Head of News Deborah Turness also announced her departure on Sunday.
The controversy centers on Trump: A Second Chance?, which aired just before last year’s U.S. vote. Edited clips gave the impression Trump urged supporters to walk with me to the U.S. Capitol and fight like hell. In full context, he invited the crowd to walk and cheer on our brave senators and congressmen and women.
UK Culture, Media and Sport Minister Lisa Nandy described the allegations as incredibly serious, warning of systemic bias in BBC reporting on diverse issues from Israel and Gaza to trans rights and former President Trump. The BBC, funded by a license fee paid by UK viewers, has promised a full response to Parliament’s Culture, Media and Sport Committee this week.
This episode adds to a string of recent BBC controversies, including apologies for serious flaws in Gaza coverage and an on-air sanction related to a documentary narrator’s links to Hamas. As the network charts its path forward, questions around media trust and accountability remain at the forefront for audiences worldwide.
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Two BBC senior leaders resign after row over Trump documentary edit
cgtn.com
