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PM calls for responsible journalism

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare speaking during the event.

PRIME Minister Manasseh Sogavare has called for journalists to practice responsible journalism.

Mr Sogavare made the call during the Press freedom and awards night event at Honiara Hotel over the weekend.

Reflecting from this year’s theme of the World Press Freedom Day, “Critical Minds for Critical Times” Mr Sogavare said this is in fact a call for “responsible journalism”.

“The theme “Critical Minds for Critical Times” is a reflection of the Media’s role as a “gatekeeper”. It reflects the ability to properly collect, assess and analyse information readily available in order to provide the foundation for a critical thinking society. It promotes constructive public discussions on issues of national importance.

“In a nutshell, the theme “Critical Minds for Critical Times is in fact a call for “responsible journalism,” he said.

He said Responsible Journalism is journalism that is above ordinary journalism. It is not popular journalism but ethical journalism. The practice of responsible journalism requires the observation of five principles.

Truth and Accuracy;

Independence;

Fairness and Impartiality;

Humanity; and

Accountability.

He has also called for Truth and Accuracy by media workers.

“No person can ever guarantee the “truth” of the matter. But getting the facts right is the cardinal principle of journalism. Journalists must always strive for accuracy, by the provision of all the relevant verified facts and must explicitly state that if that particular information cannot be corroborated.

The Prime Minister who is also the patron of MASI, said, responsible journalist must be independent. Journalists should never act, formally or informally, on behalf of special interests, whether political, corporate or cultural.

He has also called for Fairness and Impartiality.

“There are two sides to the coin. Your stories or articles should be balanced and add context. Impartial reporting builds trust and confidence.”

Sogavare said Journalists should do no harm.

“What we publish or broadcast may be hurtful, but we should be aware of the impact of our words and images on the lives of others,” he said

He said Journalists commit errors, Journalist too must correct them. Your duty is to the public and you must listen to the concerns of your audience.

“On this, I must also remind us all that “the right to freedom of speech” is not an absolute right. It is a right that is qualified by exceptions. Nor are all of the fundamental rights enshrined in our constitution.”



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