Journalists hold a critical responsibility in shaping the narrative and fostering peace before, during, and after the 2024 elections, says William Nlanjerbor Jalulah, Upper East Regional Chairman of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
He emphasized that media practitioners must let ethics guide their work, ensuring accuracy, impartiality, and sensitivity to promote unity and prevent conflict.
“As journalists, we must remain focused and be guided by our ethics in whatever reportage we do, especially for media houses covering the election live,” he said.
“If you make a mistake, it’s already out there, so you need to be extra cautious, ensuring thorough checks and balances,” he added.
Mr. Jalulah urged journalists to exercise caution in the information they disseminate through their platforms, reminding them to consider the far-reaching impact of their reports. “People look up to the media for the dissemination of accurate and reliable information,” he stressed, highlighting the vital role of journalists in maintaining peace during this critical period.
“There’s also the fact that this election has exceptionally high stakes. It’s unique because, for the first time in our democratic dispensation, both the NPP and NDC have northerners on their presidential tickets,” he noted.
Mr. Jalulah spoke as part of a collaborative initiative between A1 Radio and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).
The project, titled “Countering Hate Speech and Polarizing Narratives to Foster Democratic Consolidation and Peace in Ghana,” seeks to strengthen the electoral process by promoting tolerance and responsible information-sharing. The initiative aims to educate the public on the importance of peaceful political discourse, counter divisive narratives, and foster inclusive dialogue, particularly during the election period. Its broader goal is to consolidate Ghana’s democracy and ensure a peaceful electoral environment.
Source: A1Radioonline.Com | 101.1MHz | Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith | Bolgatanga
