GJA salutes journalists

Accra, Dec. 29, GNA - Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on Friday asked journalists to demonstrate greater commitment and high sense of professionalism as they entered the New Year.

"We consider this crucial to the steady development of the country's development."

A New Year message issued and signed by Mr Bright Blewu, General Secretary, in Accra said improved professionalism was the contribution the media could make to the successful celebration of Ghana's Golden Jubilee and also provide a good impetus for a peaceful political campaign for the Elections 2008.

"The GJA wishes to commend the media in their effort in 2006 in living up to their social responsibilities, including that of informing, educating and entertaining the people and their constitutional obligation of holding those in public office accountable."

The statement said no matter the progress made by the Ghanaian media during the year, it was important that members took serious notice of their shortcomings.

This, the Association said included some serious ethical violations, especially, lack of respect for the "People's Right to True Information" which required that the public was provided with unbiased, accurate, balanced and comprehensive information that would let people make informed choices.

The GJA, therefore, reminded journalists and media houses of the need to abide by the Code of Ethics of the profession saying: "Media organizations must make it a policy to carry out fair and balanced coverage; remember to make adequate inquiries and to thoroughly cross-check their facts before publishing.

=93We consider these values to be in line with Article 41 (a) of the Constitution, which extols all Ghanaians while enjoying their rights and freedoms and in the performance of their duties and obligations to promote the prestige and good name of Ghana.=94

The Association encouraged the media to vigorously pursue their agenda-setting role and allow the people to express themselves freely through them in the coming year.

It, however, cautioned that that should be done with both decorum and circumspection geared towards the establishment of national cohesion and consensus.

"It is our hope that all members, partners and the public will continue to show goodwill towards the promotion of high journalistic standards and press freedom and be supportive of the cause of freedom and independence of the media. 29 Dec. 06