Mozambican singer and video maker Case Buyakah recently shared a scathing critique of traditional media outlets, especially television and news programs, on social media. In his outburst, Buyakah expressed his growing distrust of the media, stating: “Television is definitely no longer trustworthy, nor are news programs. I already knew this in theory, but now I'm seeing it in practice that there's nothing left to say…”.
The artist's statement reflects a growing sentiment not only in Mozambique, but in many parts of the world. Public trust in traditional media has been shaken by issues such as bias, lack of diversity of opinions, and a growing perception of information manipulation. The crisis of media credibility becomes even more evident during times of social and political crises, when the population seeks accurate and transparent information.
Buyakah, as a public figure and active content creator, possesses a particular perspective on mass communication and its impact on society. His experience in the audiovisual field and his direct contact with the public allow him to perceive how public opinion transforms in relation to the media. The frustration expressed in his social media outburst demonstrates that, for him, the reality transmitted by television news no longer corresponds to people's daily lives.
Buyakah's statement also raises an important question about the role of social media and video platforms as alternative sources of information. Many, like him, have turned to these media to seek news in a more authentic and less filtered way. Social media, while also having its limitations and challenges regarding veracity, allows direct access to accounts and testimonies from diverse voices, including those that may be outside the interests of major media outlets.
Digital platforms, by offering a more decentralized view of events, are becoming increasingly attractive to artists, influencers, and the general public. Case Buyakah, himself a content creator, understands the power of these platforms to reach an audience in a less mediated way, where authenticity and freedom of expression are valued.
The Impact on the Relationship Between Media and Society
The crisis of confidence in traditional media is a challenge that demands reflection and adaptation. For Mozambican media outlets, Buyakah's criticism can be seen as a warning. In an era where the public is increasingly aware of editorial choices and how information is transmitted, it is crucial that television and news channels seek ways to regain lost credibility. Transparency, commitment to the truth, and openness to multiple perspectives are essential elements for restoring public trust.
Case Buyakah's outburst, therefore, is not just an isolated opinion; it reflects a broader concern shared by many. As an artist and communicator, he voices a frustration that can motivate a necessary discussion about the future of media in Mozambique and the role of alternative media in building an informed and critical society.
A Call to Reflection
Case Buyakah's statement is, ultimately, an invitation for the public and the media themselves to reflect on what is truly essential to building trustworthy media. In an era of rapid technological and social change, a commitment to honest and transparent communication may be the key to restoring the relationship between the media and the Mozambican public.
Buyakah's critique highlights the need for a new perspective on the role of media and the content we consume, whether on television, news programs, or social media. She reminds us that trust is a value that needs to be constantly cultivated and that, once lost, is difficult to regain.
