In a bid to promote fact-based and ethical journalism ahead of Ghana’s December 2024 elections, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), in collaboration with the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), will launch a Code of Ethics on October 17, 2024, in Accra.
This initiative is part of a DW Akademie-funded project led by MFWA, aimed at fostering critical and accountable reporting during the election season. The project, Promoting Fact-Based and Critical Reporting in Ghana’s Electioneering Processes through Public Interest and Accountability, seeks to ensure that media professionals adhere to ethical standards that protect democracy and enhance credibility in the election reporting process.
The Code of Ethics, which will be officially launched by Mr. George Sarpong, Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission (NMC), introduces updated provisions that address modern challenges, including the rise of online media. In light of the growing trend of citizen journalism and the proliferation of online platforms, PRINPAG’s new guidelines aim to combat the challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and sensationalism.
Jeorge Wilson Kingson, Executive Secretary of PRINPAG, highlighted the significance of the Code’s launch at such a crucial time. “The media’s responsibility in this critical election year cannot be overstated. Our updated Code of Ethics aims to ensure that journalists remain committed to truth, transparency, and professionalism, which are essential for peaceful and credible elections,” he said.
The launch will also feature a forum that will bring together journalists, editors, media associations, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders. The forum will discuss the role of ethical journalism in preserving democracy and offer insights into best practices for fact-checking and critical reporting.
As Ghana prepares for its general elections, the new Code of Ethics seeks to ensure that journalists uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, and fairness in their work, thereby contributing to peaceful and transparent elections.
