In a proactive move to ensure the safety of journalists and the integrity of information dissemination during the upcoming 2024 general elections, the National Media Commission (NMC) has announced a series of measures aimed at protecting media practitioners and promoting responsible journalism.
The Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission, George Sarpong, highlighted the critical need for journalists to adhere strictly to the code of ethics governing their profession.
He emphasized that the dissemination of unverified information could lead to public chaos, particularly in the high-stakes environment of an election period.
“Journalists must ensure proper verification of information before dissemination. It is crucial to avoid misleading the public with unverified information that can cause unnecessary panic and chaos”.
George Sarpong, Executive Secretary, National Media Commission
Mr Sarpong further cautioned against the use of hate speech, urging media practitioners to be mindful of the potentially inflammatory nature of their reporting.
Furthermore, the Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission, George Sarpong outlined a three-pronged approach that the NMC will implement to safeguard journalists and uphold media integrity.
Mr Sarpong expressed the National Media Commission’s commitment to ensuring the protection of journalists so they can perform their duties without fear of harm.
Again, Mr Sarpong indicated that the National Media Commission aimed to promote responsible journalism practices to maintain public trust and confidence in the media.
Highlighting the commission’s plans to combat disinformation, Mr Sarpong mentioned that the National Media Commission is actively working to prevent the spread of false information by engaging with media outlets and addressing issues of concern directly.
“We call it public brain trust, well respected in the community, very knowledgeable, but experts in their various fields that we bring together”, Mr. Sarpong elaborated.
Inauguration of Media Advisory Committee
To further support these initiatives, the National Media Commission has inaugurated a Media Advisory Committee, which will play a pivotal role in assisting journalists and ensuring their safety.
The committee according to the NMC will engage with media houses, settle disputes, and provide guidance on best practices.
The Chairman of the National Media Commission, Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, commenting on the initiative, underscored the importance of verifying information before publication, particularly when sourced from social media.
He advised traditional media outlets to be cautious about replicating content from social media without proper verification.
“I will appeal to the mainstream media, now called the traditional media never ever replicate what you see on social media, without establishing the foundation of it. Because the people on social media have not had the training that we have. And so, when you receive any material on social media, and you put it out, you’re helping them to misinform us”.
Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, Chairman of the National Media Commission
Mr Ayeboafo further pointed out that the National Media Commission’s initiatives aim to fortify the role of the media as a trusted pillar of democracy, especially during the critical period of national elections.
He emphasized that by upholding ethical standards and ensuring the safety of journalists, the Commission seeks to foster an environment where accurate and responsible reporting can thrive.
As Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, the Chairman of the National Media Commission strongly opined that the NMC’s measures underscored the crucial role that a free, fair, and ethical press plays in the democratic process.
He stressed that the Commission’s efforts to combat disinformation and promote journalistic integrity will be instrumental in safeguarding the nation’s democratic values and ensuring an informed electorate.
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