Today, 12th August 2024, Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu S.V.D, Catholic Bishop of Ho Diocese and Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishop's Conference, has been appointed Chairperson of the Volta Regional Media Advisory Committee. The seven-member committee was formed to ensure journalists' safety, before, during, and after the election period, and will address media concerns, settle disputes, promote responsibility, and combat misinformation.
Other members include Bruce Senam McBrain, Deputy Regional Manager, Methodist Education Unit (Coordinating Member), Dr. George Mawusi Afeti, former Rector of Ho Polytechnic, Ms. Yaa Opuni Amankwa, Registrar, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Mr. Anthony Bells Kafui Kanyi, Former Volta Regional Chairman, Ghana Journalists Association, Andrews Dodzi Adugu, Esq., Senior State Attorney & Mr. Nenorla Kwashie Gidiglo, Retired Educationist.
Mr. George Sarpong, the Executive secretary of the Ghana Media Commission gave the purpose of the gathering stating that this advisory committee is geared towards promoting peace before during, and after the election in the Volta Region.
Chief Harry Chrystal, a member of the Ghana Media Commission spoke about how Artificial intelligence has become the order of the day and how it can influence the electoral processes both, negatively and positively. He therefore called on all to be vigilant.
Mr. Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, Chairman of the National Media Commission, swore in the committee members and emphasized the importance of verifying information before publication to avoid spreading misinformation. He urged journalists to conduct thorough research and challenge unsubstantiated claims, especially as the December General Elections approach. He warns the journalist about fake news citing several examples. He called on all and sundry to combat fake news by carrying factual, accurate information. He added that whenever we receive information we should kindly check the source. He said that yes we have freedom of speech but every freedom comes with a responsibility.
Bishop Fianu stated that the committee will promote a free, independent, and responsible media landscape by educating media practitioners and citizens on maintaining peace before, during, and after the elections. He emphasized that Ghana is the only country we have, and anything we do to disturb the peace will hurt citizens. He called on media practitioners to be circumspect in their reportage and objective.
Bishop further stressed the importance of peaceful reporting and urged media practitioners to work closely with the committee to preserve the region's tranquility. He also appealed for more support from the Ghana Media Commission
Rev. Fr. Samuel Eco Kornu, Director of Social Communications, Ho Diocese, stated that the Catholic Church is collaborating with other religious groups to promote peace throughout the electoral period. He called on all lay faithful to collaborate with church leaders to contribute positively to the peace enjoyed in the region and the country. He appealed to media practitioners to be guided by journalistic ethics and avoid hate speech on the media landscape.
