Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission (NMC), Dr. George Sarpong has urged the media not to lose sight of the ethical principles underlying the practice of the profession.
This, he says, will enhance the integrity of the media and minimise accusations of the media carrying out stories that violate ethics and the law.
He was speaking at a roundtable discussion on freedom of speech and media freedom organised by Citi TV and the National Media Commission at Alisa Hotel, Accra.
“Ethically, we expect some response from the media. The whole question of ethics sums up in truth-telling, honest search for the truth and courageous telling of the truth,” he said.
For him, news items that infringe on the fundamental rights of the persons involved, and third parties should be treated with utmost circumspection because of the tendency of such stories to lead to serious legal issues.
“Anytime that you are doubt in dealing with materials that can impact others, particularly in relation to privacy and reputation, if the matter relates to a private person in a private place that’s a danger, so one has to be careful. If it’s a public person in a public space…in most cases, you could do that without [too many problems] if you are truthful by looking for information and presenting the matter honestly.”
Dr. Sarpong admitted the dilemma that comes with covering stories involving a private person in a public space, but advised that such reports should be done with caution and circumspection.
The discussion, themed “Exploring the Boundaries of Freedom of Speech – The Professional, Ethical and Legal Dimensions” was in the light of recent events that include the arrest of some popular persons over public comments they have made.
It featured private legal practitioner, Ace Ankomah and founder of the Media Foundation for West Africa, Prof. Kwame Karikari, Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission, Dr. George Sarpong and was moderated by Vivian Kai Lokko, Head of News at Citi FM and Citi TV.