Media owners have been tasked to go the extra mile in ensuring that their platforms are not used to propagate unguarded statements.
Likewise, it is incumbent on media practitioners to watch against comments that could heighten tension in the country in the run up to the 2016 elections
Dean of Graduate Studies and Research at Local Government Institute, Dr Eric Oduro Osae who made the call on Onua FM’s Election Command Centre, Kokromoti, admonished the media to be selective in terms of resource persons, especially politicians, they allow into their studios.
He maintained that the country could be plunged into chaos if people misconstrue free speech to mean that one can say anything and get away with it.
Dr Eric Oduro Osae’s comments followed four months jail sentence and a 10,000 cedis fine handed by the Supreme Court to two radio panelists Alistair Nelson and Godwin Ako Gunn and host of political talk show on Accra based Muntie FM, Salifu Maase, now known as Mugabe.
“I think we all must be careful what we say and most especially media owners and commentators, people get up and go on air and make all kinds of unfounded allegations and what is sad is that radio moderators will also allow these comments to go unchecked, it is dangerous for our budding democracy.”
Dr Eric Oduro Osae has also expressed disappointment over what he described as carelessness on the part of radio hosts who are supposed to be radar of the show and educate the public, mostly find themselves also joining the frail either urging their guests on or contributing to the cacophony.
“Now a days, you find presenters or show hosts who have become major instigators on radio, such people are becoming a threat to democracy, radio is to educate and inform but there seems to be a new trend which we need to nip in the bud or we throw this country into flame.”
He posited that the media should champion developmental discussions that will continue to maintain the peace of this country instead of allowing disparaging and incriminating comments.
“Let us promote peace and development for a better Ghana instead of promoting divisive tendencies” he added.
By Bright Dzakah | Onua 95.1FM | 3news.com
