The Chief of Staff of the Techiman Traditional Council and elder brother of the Paramount Chief of Techima, Nana Stephen Akumfi Ameyaw, has issued a warning to journalists to be cautious of sensationalism in their reportage.
Nana Stephen caution to journalist is part of efforts by the Techiman Traditional Council to ensure peace reigns in the municipality before, during and after the upcoming December polls.
Nana Stephen Akumfi Ameyaw explained that, journalists have the responsibility to preserve the peace in their reportage. He emphasized on the importance of responsible journalism and the potential consequences of spreading misinformation or inciting violence through sensationalist reporting.
“Journalists have a major role to play in politics, they are mainly responsible of ensuring peace in the country before, during, and after elections.
“I will urge journalists in Techiman and Ghana to be wary of their reportage and most importantly do away with sensationalism. Most journalist exaggerate in their reportage with the aim of gaining more audience without necessary considering the consequences of what they are saying.” He said.
Nana Stephen Akumfi Ameyaw, likened the work of journalist to that of linguists saying “when a chief said something which is bad, a linguist will find a way to relay what the chief said in a positive manner and if someone also say something that is unpleasant to the ears of a chief, a linguist will say same message in a more pleasant manner and that is literary the duty of a journalist.
“Journalist must work as linguist, they should know that not all things are for public consumption and not all messages are meant to be said the way it is. Investors and owners of the various media platforms did not establish the media houses for journalist to cause fear and panic and also disrupt the peace of the nation.
“Owners of the various media houses wants a peaceful and stable country to operate their businesses and therefore journalist have the duty to ensure that peace reigns in the country by measuring their reportage and being agents of peace before, during, and after the elections.”
The Chief of Staff’s warning serves as a reminder of the significant role that journalists play in maintaining peace and unity through accurate and balanced reporting. By adhering to ethical standards and avoiding sensationalism, journalists can contribute to the overall development and well-being of Techiman and Ghana.
Source: Elvisanokyenews.com
