As Ghana prepares for the upcoming 2024 General Elections this weekend, the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has called on its members to uphold professionalism and contribute to a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Recognizing the media’s pivotal role in shaping public opinion, PRINPAG urges journalists and publishers to adhere to the highest standards of accuracy and integrity in their reporting.
This advice was outlined in a press release issued by PRINPAG and signed by Jeorge Wilson Kingson, Executive Secretary, and Andrew Edwin Arthur, President.
The association further stressed the importance of verifying facts before publication and avoiding the spread of misinformation or sensational headlines that could inflame tensions leading up to the elections.
PRINPAG also emphasized the need for the media to prioritize national unity and peace, urging its members to refrain from publishing content that could exacerbate divisions or incite violence. Instead, journalists are encouraged to focus on stories that promote understanding and social cohesion.
With an eye on the integrity of the electoral process, the association reminded members to maintain objectivity and avoid allowing political biases to influence their reporting. In this critical time, journalists have a responsibility to provide balanced and fair coverage that respects all parties involved.
PRINPAG further called on its members to use their platforms to educate the public on the importance of peaceful participation in the elections, encouraging citizens to exercise their franchise responsibly and respect the results of the democratic process.
The association also underscored the importance of ethical decision-making, urging journalists to follow the PRINPAG Code of Ethics and to remember the significant impact their work has on both the public and the media profession. Members are also reminded to prioritize their safety and report any threats or intimidation to both security agencies and PRINPAG leadership.
PRINPAG remains committed to supporting free, fair, and credible elections in Ghana and will take action against any members who engage in unprofessional conduct during this period. The association commended its members for their continued efforts to inform the public responsibly and urged them to continue prioritizing peace and democracy during the election season.
The PRINPAG Secretariat will remain open throughout the election period, offering administrative support and assistance to all members.
Below is the full statement
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PRINPAG CAUTIONS MEMBERS TO UPHOLD PROFESSIONALISM AND PROMOTE PEACE DURING THE 2024 GENERAL ELECTIONS
As Ghana approaches a significant milestone in its democratic journey with the 2024 General Elections scheduled for this weekend, the National Leadership of the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) wishes to remind all members of their critical role in promoting credible, peaceful, and transparent elections.
The media serves as a powerful instrument for information dissemination and nation-building. As journalists and publishers, we are entrusted with the responsibility of informing the public accurately, fairly, and without bias. In this regard, we urge all PRINPAG members to:
1. Adhere to Professional Standards: Uphold the highest standards of journalism by verifying facts before publication. Refrain from spreading misinformation, sensational headlines, or unverified claims that may inflame tensions.
2. Prioritize Peace and National Cohesion: Avoid publishing content that could exacerbate divisions, incite violence, or undermine the peace and stability of the nation. Instead, focus on promoting messages that foster unity and understanding.
3. Steer Clear of Extreme Partisanship: As watchdogs of democracy, journalists must maintain neutrality and objectivity. Avoid allowing political affiliations or biases to cloud your judgment or influence your reportage.
4. Promote Civic Responsibility: Educate the public on the importance of peaceful participation in the electoral process. Encourage citizens to exercise their franchise responsibly and to respect the outcome of the elections.
5. Exercise Ethical Judgment: Let the PRINPAG Code of Ethics guide your actions and decisions during this critical period. Remember that your work impacts not only your audience but also the reputation of the media profession as a whole.
6. Personal Security: We also urge our members to prioritize their personal security and promptly report any threats, intimidation, or attacks to both state security agencies and the national leadership of PRINPAG.
PRINPAG stands resolute in its commitment to supporting free, fair, and credible elections in Ghana. We will not hesitate to call out or sanction members who breach ethical guidelines or engage in unprofessional conduct during this election period.
We commend the efforts of all our members who have worked diligently to inform the public in the lead-up to the elections. Let us continue to do so responsibly, keeping Ghana’s peace and democracy at the forefront of our priorities.
We would like to take this opportunity to inform all members of the Association that the PRINPAG Secretariat will remain open throughout the election period, providing administrative support and any other assistance members may require.
Together, we can make history as a media fraternity that contributes positively to Ghana’s democratic success.
Signed:
Jeorge Wilson Kingson
Executive Secretary
0244822034
Andrew Edwin Arthur
President
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