...For Interfering With Media Operations

Ghana’s Media gate-keeper, the National Media Commission (NMC) has accused the Minister of information and Presidential Affairs, Jake Obetsebi-Lamptey of contravening provisions of the Constitution on press freedom by summoning Chief Executives of radio and television stations to a meeting. Mr Obetsebi-Lamptey’s meeting was ostensibly called to discuss and adopt a code of conduct to ensure self discipline and sanity in the media.

Ghana’s Constitution frowns on any such direct intervention or interference from government. Rather, the National Media Commission, (NMC) is tasked with that responsibility as well as promoting and ensuring the freedom and independence of the Media.

In a letter to the Minister, NMC Chairman, Nutsifafa Kuenyehia noted that while government or its functionaries cannot be denied their right to express their views on the performance of the Media, it must however be done, where necessary, through proper channels.

The Chairman of the Commission cited channels such as press-conferences, rejoinders or formal complaints through the NMC, but not as a directive or instruction from government. Mr Kuenyehia said the meeting at the instance of the Minister amounted to an attempt to issue directives to the Media and asked that this should not happen again.

Mr Obetsebi-Lamptey was also reminded of the fact that the NMC already has guidelines on Broadcasting Standards and is in the process of turning them into a legislation to guide the conduct of electronic media practice.