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Is Pirate Radio Dead?
It all started in Denmark in 1958... then it spread to Luxembourg, then Britain... and then in one form or another, from Jamaica to Cuba to Serbia to South America, 'pirate' or 'free' radio stations, broadcasting without a license, changed the politics and music of their generation. 40 years ago, Britain finally shut down its pirate radio stations and the 91Èȱ¬ absorbed the pioneering djs who first brought a steady stream of popular music to the masses. The last station to go off-air, Radio Caroline, which at its peak attracted up to 15 million listeners, is staging a temporary comeback this week, broadcasting from a ship moored a few miles off the Essex coast. The playlist will stay faithful to the time - only songs from 1964-67 will be played, and in their original vinyl format. News will be read out in bulletin point style, and jingles will be sung as they were.
Have you ever been a fan of pirate radio? Is it still a force for change? Or has the power of the airwaves to shape our thoughts, tastes and morals died? Email us.
South Africa's AIDS maverick?
Here's a description of Nozizwe Madlala-Routledge, South Africa's deputy health minister:
"...a heroic woman [who] took a principled stand in defence of life, dignity and health."
Is it fair then, that she's been sacked for taking a trip to an AIDS conference in Spain, without President Thabo Mbeki's permission? Was it an administrative error, or is there something more sinister at play? She says she was sacked for criticising the state of South African hospitals and her sacking has been condemned by Aids activists and the opposition as a setback in the fight against HIV. Has there been a fundamental change in the attitude about HIV? Read more .
Is Nigeria anti-gay?
Eighteen men arrested in northern Nigeria face death by stoning for engaging in sodomy. The men were arrested in a hotel in north-eastern Bauchi State, which is governed by Islamic Sharia law. It's not just the north. Earlier this year, the Nigerian Senate was considering laws banning homosexuality with some arguing the law would save Nigerian morals and cultural values. Are they right? Or does the punishment of gays and lesbians show Nigeria is a society not fully in tune with democratic values?
Read more on the story .
We're midway to our new office... hence the lateness of today's email. But we won't be late on air! So speak to you then.
Cheers,
Anu
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