OccupyGhana, a pressure group has decided to discontinue the widely
tolerated practice of handing out cash to journalists who show up to
cover events and report.
A statement issued to the Ghana News Agency by George Andah of
OccupyGhana said "the practice of handing out cash when journalists
cover events flies in the face of ethical journalistic practice, as it
can be construed to suggest an inducement for the favorable
reporting of an event. It also potentially raises questions about
the accuracy, fairness and balance of the stories that are eventually
written."
The statement further noted "fully cognizant that the practice of
paying 'soli' provides a fertile ground for corruption to thrive."
George Andah said this decision was taken to demonstrate OccupyGhana's
anti-corruption stance and also to establish for the record that the
movement is not about talk alone but also about deeds.
He said although they believe such action has the potential to "hurt"
coverage of OccupyGhana events, "we believe it's the right decision."
"OccupyGhana stands in solidarity with the many journalists who do not
insist on nor request cash handouts before they do their jobs.
In fact we take this opportunity to acknowledge their principled
stance and hope that their compatriots will come to accept the wisdom
of their position.
"Once again we salute these patriotic journalists who have decided to
put Ghana first on this journey to get Ghana work again by covering
and reporting OccupyGhana's activities. We cannot achieve this
collective goal without you," he added.
The statement said "let us be the generation to plant trees today so
the next generation can enjoy the shade.
Credit: GNA
My Comment: OccupyGhana, Now that you are kick against the almighty
soli, Please do well and put pressure on media owners to pay their
workers well. Thank You
Comment added by: Kofi Oppong Kyekyeku
