The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has warned media practitioners against unprofessional conduct ahead of the 2024 elections.
Speaking at the Launch of the GJA/US Embassy Ghana Election 2024 project dubbed: “Journalists for Peaceful Discourse” on Thursday, the GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, said GJA will not protect or defend any media practitioner who behaves in a way that incites violence or undermines the electoral process.
The GJA’s warning comes after a monitoring report by the association found that the media was used to incite violence during the 2020 elections.
Mr Dwumfour added that freedom of expression does not mean that people can speak irresponsibly.
He urged media practitioners to practice responsible journalism and to avoid reporting in a way that could incite violence or undermine the electoral process.
“Freedom of expression does not only mean allowing people to speak but also ensuring responsibility. Findings of a GJA/MNC media monitoring during the December 7 elections revealed that incitement on media platforms topped types of violence perpetuated during the election.
“This is the reason I keep admonishing media practitioners and institutions to be very professional in the discharge of their duties. I want to reiterate that the GJA does not and will not condone unprofessional conduct. We will not shield or provide cover for defiance of professionalism.”
