Journalists call for sanity among media practitioners

Takoradi, May 1, GNA –Journalists at a day's workshop have suggested the withdrawal of licenses of media houses that promote violence.

They said the airwaves must be manned by professionals and panelists who should operate within the code of ethics of the profession to ensure quality journalism in the country.

The “Media Responsibility Project” workshop organised by the West Africa Network for Peace Building-Ghana (WANEP-Ghana), was funded by the German Embassy to promote responsible journalism.

The journalists said they were not happy with the use of colour, proverbs and over exaggeration by most Akan news readers which sometimes heightened unnecessary tension.

The group commended GBC for staying on guard with regards to local news reporting and urged the rest to emulate the premier broadcaster.

Mr. Justin Bayor, Coordinator, WANEP-Ghana who facilitated the workshop, said the network had identified 14 hot spots in the country and was working with women and the youth to propagate peace messages.

He said “Peace Reporting” was one area that must be given the needed attention in the country.

Mr. Bayor said the Western Region which was gradually becoming an economic hub for the country, demanded lots of initiatives to manage the expectations of the people.

He said areas of emerging threats to peace included mining, oil and gas, land and chieftaincy and called on journalists operating in the region to be mindful when reporting on those issues.

GNA