FORUM FOR PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISM: UPHOLDING JOURNALISTIC INTEGRITY IN GHANA – A CALL TO ACTION

 

FORUM FOR PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISM                                                                                                            9Th NOVEMBER, 2023

UPHOLDING  JOURNALISTIC INTEGRITY IN GHANA – A CALL TO ACTION 

The leadership of the Forum for Professional Journalism has realized with apt concern that, there is an increasing unprofessional and unethical practices and conduct among a section of Journalists in the country.

 The Forum therefore wishes to draw the attention of journalists to constantly remind themselves of their core duties and responsibilities. 

Accurate and unbiased journalism stands as the bedrock of an informed society.

 In a world where information is constantly changing hands, the essence of journalism can be distilled into three vital interactions: person-to-person, person-to-environment/societal, and person-to-solution. 

To be an exceptional journalist is to know when to engage and when to disengage, ensuring the delivery of authentic, unbiased, and genuine information.

Inserting oneself into a situation when humanizing it enhances perspective, and withdrawal when staying compromises integrity. Journalists are entrusted with the duty to be the guardians of truth, upholding the honor and code that binds information dissemination to the people of Ghana. 

Credibility is the currency of journalism, and it's the most precious asset of any journalist.

 

The public relies on journalists to deliver unadulterated information, free from personal interests or propaganda while serving as the watchdog, ensuring that the power granted to them is used responsibly and ethically. 

The practice of using journalism to attack and publicly disgrace individuals or businesses is unacceptable.

 Businesses striving to benefit Ghana's citizens deserve fair and balanced coverage, promoting job opportunities for the country's unemployed. Being a journalist means earning the public's trust and loyalty. 

In doing so, we strengthen the protection of some business oriented personalities like Daniel Nii Nshia McKorley(CEO of McDan Group of Companies), Dr. Papa Kwasi Nduom, Mr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Ibrahim Mahama, Osei Kwame Despite, Julius Debrah, Kennedy Ohene Agyapong, among others.

 In a world where loyalties can shift easily, remaining steadfast in our commitment to the journalism profession cannot be overemphasized.

 Let credibility be the badge of honor you wear daily, and remember to be your brother's keeper, ensuring the integrity of the information that shapes the lives of the people you serve.

Signed 

Coordinator,

 RSM Kofi Doe Lawson

0542556808

Organizer,    

 Hajia Bintu

0243378178