President of the Private Newspapers and Online Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), Lawyer Andrew Edwuin Arthur, has served notice of a crackdown on unprofessional journalism among its members. He stated that as the country inches closer to the December elections, journalists must avoid unnecessary sensationalism that can potentially lead to chaos.
Speaking at a two-day training workshop for members of the association in Somanya, Eastern Region, Lawyer Arthur maintained that the leadership of PRINPAG has implemented modernized structures to assist various media establishments in reversing the decline in newspaper patronage. He further noted that PRINPAG will soon launch its fit-for-purpose code of ethics and will enforce strict adherence to these ethics to counter the downward trend of media patronage in the country.
Lawyer Arthur also revealed that PRINPAG has resolved to act against members who deliberately ignore the ethics of the profession and engage in reckless practices that may bring the image of the noble profession into disrepute.
“The leadership of PRINPAG has resolved to take action against members who deliberately ignore the ethics of the profession and engage in reckless practices that may tarnish our noble profession’s image. We will refer such errant members to our disciplinary committee to undergo due process in accordance with the Constitution of the Association,” he emphasized.
He reiterated the call for all journalists to avoid sensationalism in their reporting, as it has the potential to plunge the country into chaos during the elections.
“Elections are crucial moments for every country, as they can make or break a nation. Therefore, we in the leadership of PRINPAG urge all our members to refrain from engaging in unnecessary sensationalism that can cause trouble and tension and ultimately serve as a recipe for chaos in the country,” he said.
The workshop, themed “Empowering Journalists for Credible Reporting: Enhancing Reporting and Fact-Checking Skills,” aimed to equip members ahead of the coverage of the Presidential and Parliamentary elections in December 2024.