Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr has expressed concern over the growing trend of irresponsible speech in Ghana's media space, particularly on social media. Speaking on Accra-based Metro TV's Good Morning Ghana, Mr Pratt said the trend was far removed from the principles of free speech that journalists and other citizens fought to establish. He cited examples of persons announcing coup d'états, which he described as acts of treason.
According to Mr Pratt, the media space is increasingly being used to discuss the private affairs of public figures, including their relationships, instead of focusing on issues of public interest. This trend, he believes, is a departure from the core principles of journalism. He also criticised the use of personal attacks in political discussions, saying debates over government policies and public decisions are sometimes reduced to comments about people's physical appearance.
Mr Pratt further criticised the rising feature of religious intolerance in public discourse, with some discussions degenerating into attacks against Muslims and Christians based on their faith. He stressed that the right to free speech was not intended to give people licence to engage in treasonous or inflammatory conduct. He made it clear that people ought to be able to express views which the authorities may not be comfortable with, without fear.
The veteran journalist argued that free speech should enable citizens to hold and express views different from those of the establishment without fear, while remaining within the bounds of the law. He emphasised that the media space should be used to promote responsible and respectful discourse. Mr Pratt's comments come at a time when Ghana's media space is facing criticism for its handling of sensitive issues.
Mr Pratt's concerns are shared by many who believe that the media space has a critical role to play in promoting national cohesion and stability. He called on media practitioners to be mindful of the impact of their words and to strive for responsible reporting. The media space, he believes, should be used to promote informed public discourse and to hold those in power accountable.
The issue of irresponsible speech in Ghana's media space has sparked a national debate, with many calling for greater accountability and responsibility in the media. Mr Pratt's comments have added fuel to the debate, with many media practitioners and stakeholders weighing in on the issue. The debate is expected to continue in the coming days.
In conclusion, veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr has condemned the growing trend of irresponsible speech in Ghana's media space, particularly on social media. He has called on media practitioners to be mindful of the impact of their words and to strive for responsible reporting. The issue is expected to continue to be a topic of discussion in the coming days.
Key points
- Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt Jr criticizes growing prevalence of irresponsible speech in Ghana's media space.
- Mr Pratt cites examples of persons announcing coup d'états, which he describes as acts of treason.
- He calls on media practitioners to be mindful of the impact of their words and to strive for responsible reporting.
