The mainstream media coverage of the Indera Kayangan by-election campaign is biased, one-sided and unjust, said a local media watchdog today.

In a press statement, Charter 2000 said both the print and electronic media have ignored their social obligation to report events fairly and truthfully.

The Penang-based watchdog urged the local media to report fairly on the opposition's campaign as well as Barisan Nasional's, in order to provide fair and balanced coverage.

"Sufficient space must be given to views and opinions that represent the interests and concerns of those from diverse social and political backgrounds," said the statement.

Charter 2000 also called on local television stations to stop airing the controversial footage which associates Aghanistan's Taliban regime with PAS.

'News item'

The 90-second clip aired during prime-time news broadcasts on RTM 1, RTM 2 and TV3 conveys the message that PAS infringed on women's rights, suggesting it may behave like the repressive Taliban rulers should it come to power.

The footage, aired since early January, includes scenes depicting terrorist activities, riots, social unrest and reformasi demonstrations during jailed ex-deputy premier Anwar Ibrahim's trial.

While Information Minister Khalil Yaakob insisted that the clip was a 'news item', opposition leaders claim it was part of BN's propaganda in the run-up to the Indera Kayangan by-election.

This Saturday's by-election will see MCA's Oui Ah Lan and Keadilan's Khoo Yang Chong, in a straight fight for the state seat.

The seat fell vacant following the death of BN's state assemblyman Khor Liang Tee last month.