G-MAP calls on journalists to ensure violent free elections

Ghana Media Advocacy Programme (G-MAP), a media-related non-governmental organisation, has challenged journalists to discharge their role ethically and with circumspection, to ensure free, fair and violent free polls on December 7.

The call is contained in a statement signed by Mr. Abdul Malik Jeleel, Executive Director of G-MAP, to mark the 5th anniversary of the Center for International Media Ethics, copied to the Ghana News Agency in Accra on Wednesday.

It reminded the Ghanaian media of their crucial role of protecting the citizenry and promoting freedom, peace, unity, good governance and democracy towards national development.

The statement also appealed to journalists to remain neutral and liaise with the Electoral Commission and other stakeholders before announcing election results.

It called on NGOs, civil society organisations and opinion leaders to support journalists to enable them to carry out their responsibilities for successful polls.

The statement advised political party leaders to avoid insults, hate speech and defamatory utterances that could results in unnecessary tension and violence as the country gears up for Election 2012.

It tasked the security agencies to be alert and check acts that can result in confusion and violence.