Al Jazeera International's director of programmes has resigned, citing differences of opinion with management as the reason for his departure.
Paul Gibbs, a former editor of BBC Breakfast News, was credited with bringing high-profile names including Rageh Omaar and Sir David Frost to the Doha-based channel. AJI staff are said to be concerned as to how Gibbs departure will effect editorial independence.
The much-delayed channel was due to launch in April, but progress was hampered by construction and technical problems at its international bases in London, Doha, Kuala Lumpur and Washington.
It was hoped that the channel would appear on screens in September, but most recent reports say the station will not go live until late this year, or even 2007.
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