Ethical Dilemmas in Investigative Journalism: Anas Aremeyaw Anas and Human Rights Concerns

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights upholds fundamental human rights as a universal principle. It recognizes that every human being should naturally enjoy certain liberties, although these rights are not explicitly enshrined in any constitution. Nevertheless, the inherent inclination is for these rights to be granted to every individual.

In the context of Ghana and the realm of investigative journalism, Anas Aremeyaw Anas has gained notoriety for his efforts to combat corruption through investigative reporting, often utilizing hidden cameras to expose illicit activities. However, this approach raises concerns about the violation of privacy and the coercion of individuals into accepting bribes, ultimately leading to their labelling as corrupt. While some of Anas's investigative work has been commendable, particularly in exposing fraudulent medical practitioners and unhealthy orphanages, there remains an overarching concern regarding the methods employed.

The core issue lies in the fact that Anas's chosen approach violates the principles of human rights, as there is no law that guarantees the right to record another person in their private affairs or dealings. Ana orchestrates scenarios that implicate individuals without affording them the opportunity for a fair trial or allowing the court to scrutinize the validity and ethics of his recordings. He then presents his findings to the public, effectively branding and framing the individuals as corrupt.

Moreover, Anas's focus on targeting specific individuals and personalities for personal reasons raises serious questions about human rights violations. This was evident in the case of Kwasi Nyantakyi, whose privacy and fundamental human rights were compromised in the infamous "number 12" exposé. Nyantakyi, who could have potentially become the next CAF president, was brought to his knees due to someone's greed or undisclosed motivations. It is essential to safeguard privacy rights, as everyone is entitled to such protection.

Anas's practices not only run counter to the principles of human rights but also contradict legal procedures. The law stipulates that individuals must be prosecuted and found guilty before being pronounced as criminals or lawbreakers. It is unacceptable to ensnare people and label them as corrupt without following due process. Many of the cases investigated by Anas have resulted in premature declarations of guilt before the matters even reach the court. This raises questions about the true intentions and objectives of Anas's work. What is he truly aiming to achieve? If the goal is to expose corruption in an African context, it should be done in a principled manner that garners widespread acceptance and unequivocally proves the guilt of the individuals involved. There is no need to resort to entrapment tactics involving sheikhs in Dubai, as this constitutes a fundamental violation of human rights.

In conclusion, while the fight against corruption and the pursuit of justice are noble causes, it is crucial to uphold the principles of human rights and due process. Anas Aremeyaw Anas's investigative methods, although yielding some commendable results, raise significant concerns about privacy violations, coercion, and the denial of fair trials. To truly combat corruption in an ethical and effective manner, we must embrace a principled approach that respects the fundamental rights of individuals. It is only through upholding human rights that we can build a just society where the guilty are held accountable without compromising the very principles we seek to defend.

Isaac Ofori
(Demographer, Social Activist, Human Rights Advocate, Educator)

(PhD Candidate, SCMS, UEW)