PROMINENT journalists, broadcasters, politicians and celebrities have signed an open letter to LBC expressing “deep concern” over the sudden removal of presenter Sangita Myska from the airwaves.
Earlier this month LBC confirmed that Myska would be leaving the channel as part of a schedule shake-up.
However, speculation soon followed that the decision to remove Myska was due to an interview the presenter conducted with Israeli government spokesperson Avi Hyman in April.
Hyman appeared visibly irritated by Myska’s scrutiny over Israel’s escalation with Iran, repeatedly calling her questions “outrageous”.
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Myska was replaced by former Tory candidate Ali Miraj soon after the interview, with LBC bosses later confirming her permanent departure.
Now, an open letter has been sent to the broadcaster questioning why Myska was removed.
More than 100 people have signed the letter, including Labour MPs John McDonnell and Zarah Sultana, singer Charlotte Church, and Channel 4 news presenters Symeon Brown and Lindsey Hilsum.
It read: “The unexplained disappearance for weeks of a high profile, popular journalist from LBC’s schedule – the only Asian presenter in a regular slot – shocked, upset and confused her peers and thousands of listeners across the UK, whose strength of feeling is palpable.
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“The abrupt nature of Sangita’s departure, and the absence of an explanation, has been interpreted by many as the station’s complete disregard for industry standards relating to diversity, transparency and attributing value to its audiences, and concern that excellent journalists are at risk for simply doing their job and asking robust questions.
“In a world beset by disinformation and misinformation, Sangita’s voice as a truth teller throughout her career is even more sought after now and is missed.
"The huge outcry by her followers in recent weeks and those concerned about press freedoms highlights this. We stand in solidarity with Sangita Myska and look forward to the return of her valued journalism.”
So far, a petition calling for Myska to be reinstated by LBC has received more than 35,000 signatures.
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