The National Communication Council (NCC) has cautioned the press against biased and inaccurate reporting in their coverage of the 12, March 2022 senatorial election campaigns. The NCC boss, Joseph Chebonkeng Kalabubsu has also reminded journalists of their duty to remain professional and avoid consequent sanctions of bad reporting.
The event which took place at the NCC headquarters was an occasion to tickle the press on its role in the electoral process. Their output should contribute to transparency, fairness and reduce tension in the elections, Chebonkeng said.
"You have a crucial role to play in ensuring that the public's right to information is upheld during the election period by providing accurate, thorough and rigorous information to the public; giving a voice to various societal groups; providing information on the electoral process; analysing the issues at stake in the election; expressing the views of political parties and candidates; and observing the electoral process and it's possible flaws" said the president.”
He stated further that there can be no free, fair, transparent and democratic elections, unless citizens actually enjoy their rights to information and expression through a free, pluralistic, professional, and responsible press.
"Owing to the specific case of the senatorial election of March 12 2023, the National Communication Council would like to
He reminded media professional of the cardinal principles of good journalism. That is, fairness, transparency, balance and pluralism. These fundamental principles, he said, are necessary to avoid influencing the voters' decisions, as election campaigns tend to increase the demand for diverse political information.
With regards to the upsurge of sociopolitical events in the country, the NCC frowned at media organs strongly backed by social media who have made a habit for “recidivist publication or broadcasting of insinuating information, biased commentaries or inappropriate opinions, which favor a practice that defies all professional requirements of investigation, prior cross-checking, objectivity and responsibility.”
The Council reiterated that, the media's social responsibility does not involve judging, but rather reporting, while observing a required professional distance, on verified and proven social events. "Such practice is rather geared at promoting a pernicious social climate, than to a professional information service", he said.
In view of the foregoing, the NCC reminded the media of the gravity of the ramifications that may ensue from the publishing or broadcasting of inaccurate, inappropriate, and socially prejudicial information: "Ultimately, the Council reminds media actors of its firm resolve to enforce, where necessary, the full range of sanctions provided for by the law in force" said the president.”
The Council ended by urging media professionals to refrain from violating the principles of equality, transparency and balance which is common, throughout their coverage of the campaign of the various competing parties. The president also affirmed that, the success of the democratic process in the nation and the conduct of the campaign for the March 12 senatorial elections is crucial and calls for the responsibility of each and every one, including the media.
Sa’ah Siona Ikei, The Post Newspaper
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