The National Media Commission (NMC) has rolled out new measures to ensure the safety of journalists and uphold ethical reporting as Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections.
The Commission is calling on media practitioners to maintain professionalism and avoid disseminating unverified information that could incite chaos.
The NMC has consistently warned against the use of hate speech and emphasized the importance of adhering to the ethics of journalism.
Executive Secretary George Sarpong stated, “We call it public brain trust, well-respected in the community, very knowledgeable, but experts in their various fields that we bring together.”
He outlined three key initiatives: protecting journalist safety, promoting media responsibility, and combating disinformation.
Sarpong underscored the need for thorough verification, saying, “Proper verification of information by journalists is crucial.”
The NMC has also inaugurated a Media Advisory Committee to assist journalists and ensure their safety.
Chairman Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo advised, “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.”
He added, “The people on social media have not had the training that we have. When you receive any material on social media and you put it out, you’re helping them to misinform us.”