The Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), has launched a new code of conduct to regulate the use of intemperate languages on the airwaves.
According to GIBA, the code of conduct is an abiding principle to all members, and has been drawn out as a guide for professional conduct as the media carries out its obligation.
The launch was attended by the Chairperson of Electoral Commission (EC) Mrs. Charlotte Osei, President for National Peace Council Most Rev Prof. Emmanuel Asante, President of Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Roland Affail Monney, Dr. Chief P. A Cystal Djiracko representing Council of Elders, the National Media Commission Chair, Kwasi Gyan Apenteng, and Head of Office at UNESCO, Tirso Dos Santos.
Speaking at the launch, the President of GIBA, Akwasi Agyemang, said the code of conduct for the independent broadcasters is to make the world know that the association has taken cognizance of the excesses and abuse of the airwaves “whilst we are fighting to keep our media free, there is a greater responsibility on us as broadcasters to ensure that we don’t destroy our society.”
“It is time we the media do not underestimate our ability to shape opinions and actions, we must not use our platforms to amplify divisions in our society.”
Some details about the code include: planning, professionalism, monitoring and evaluation, political party broadcast, objectionable broadcast material, bribery and corruption, right to reply, opinion polling and editorial independence among others.
EC Chair charges media to increase voter education
The Electoral Commission (EC) used the occasion to admonish the media to support its work by educating the electorate on their role during elections.
Speaking at the launch, the Chairperson for the Commission, Charlotte Osei, said its work would be meaningless if the electorates do not know their rights and responsibilities.
She further highlighted the importance of the role the media played in the education of the electorate.
“None of the political parties can achieve their aims if the voters are not properly educated on how to exercise their political choices, and so we at the Electoral Commission believe that the democratic process will be greatly enhanced if the members of GIBA will grant the Electoral Commission more time and attention to engage and educate voters better.”
–
By: Philip Nii Lartey/citifmonline.com/Ghana