Sulemana Braimah, the Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), has expressed serious concerns over recent acts of violence and incitement broadcasted and tolerated on Onua FM/Onua TV.
He highlighted that such actions pose a clear and substantial threat not only to the peace and social cohesion of the nation but also to the fundamental principle of media freedom.
Braimah stressed that when media platforms allow or encourage violent rhetoric, it undermines the very essence of democratic discourse and jeopardizes the stability of the country.
This, he emphasized, calls for immediate attention and corrective action to ensure that media outlets uphold their responsibility to promote peace and contribute positively to national unity.
“It does appear that for the owners, board, and managers of the media organization, media freedom means media recklessness is allowed so long as such acts will attract listeners and viewers, and ultimately, advertisers who simply advertise on the basis of numbers.
“I hope and pray that they come to the realization that it is also possible to have the numbers and revenue from good, ethical, and professional media practice”.
Sulemana Braimah
Braimah expressed deep concern over the erosion of ethics, values, and professionalism in both media and other related sectors.
He highlighted that the prevailing atmosphere seems to lack a fundamental commitment to the ethical principles that once governed the industry, particularly in terms of responsible reporting and public discourse.
This disregard for professional conduct, according to Braimah, poses serious risks not only to the quality of media content but also to the overall credibility of the media in shaping public opinion.
Furthermore, Braimah called for advertisers to take a more thoughtful and ethical approach to their decisions.
He pointed out that while reaching large audiences may be tempting, it is essential to recognize the broader impact of media content on society.
By looking beyond simple numerical reach, advertisers can help ensure that their investments promote responsible and constructive messaging.
Braimah emphasized that advertisers have a role in influencing media practices and could contribute to reversing harmful trends by supporting ethical and value-driven programming that fosters social cohesion and integrity.
Media Freedom’s Role in Public Good Stressed
Moreover, Sulemana Braimah strongly asserted that these acts of recklessness, which seem to benefit only the perpetrators and media owners, are fundamentally at odds with the reasons behind the extensive media freedoms enshrined in the 1992 Constitution.
He pointed out that the constitution’s provisions for media freedom were not intended to protect irresponsible behavior or the spread of harmful content that undermines national peace, social cohesion, and public trust.
“Such freedoms are granted because the media, when responsible, professional, and ethical, can, and actually will be, a force for the good of our society. Media freedom cannot be the same as media chaos”.
Sulemana Braimah
Braimah emphasized that the constitutional freedoms granted to the media are meant to safeguard the right to free expression, facilitate the exchange of ideas, and hold power to account.
However, he argued that when media outlets exploit these freedoms for sensationalism, incitement, or divisive content, it not only distorts the essence of press freedom but also endangers the broader public interest.
According to Braimah, this form of recklessness diminishes the media’s role as a responsible and ethical institution within society and misuses the constitutional provisions that were put in place to foster democratic values and ensure the well-being of the nation.
Sulemana Braimah expressed hope that media owners and managers will soon realize that success should not be measured solely by “numbers and advertising revenue.”
While financial gains are important, he emphasized that the media’s primary responsibility is to uphold ethical standards, promote truth, and contribute positively to society.
He urged media outlets to recognize their moral obligation to foster responsible journalism, protect democratic processes, and build a more informed and cohesive society.
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