PEACEFUL ELECTIONS; WHAT THE MEDIA MUST DO

When it comes to democracy and elections in Ghana, the media has played a very essential and important role. I can boldly say that democratic elections without the media will be impossible especially in this 21st century. When we talk of media many people limit it to print, radio and television. Over the years, new media including social media and online journalism have been the platform where citizen journalism is widely practiced, especially in countries where traditional media is either controlled or strictly regulated.

For an election to be free and fair, it is not only about the freedom and the knowledge of how to cast a vote, but also about taking part in the process where voters engage in public debates and have enough information about parties, policies, candidates and the election process itself . As the 2020 general election approaches, there are some steps the media can take to ensure that there is peace, before, during and after the elections.

First of all, the media need to maintain a high level of professionalism, accuracy and impartiality in their coverage and reportage especially during the elections. Contents of their programmes should promote peace unity and love for mother Ghana.

The watchdog role of the media must be highly demonstrated. They should use their platforms to:

educate voters on how to exercise their democratic rights through voting
allow political parties and candidates to communicate only positive and peaceful message to the electorates
report election campaigns of all parties and not just one side
Cover the entire elections, monitor vote counting and report results
Provide information that is free from of provocative language that can ignite war and chaos.
The national media commission must make sure that they regulate and monitor the activities of media houses before, during and after the elections. We need Ghana safe and alive before, during and after the 2020 December polls! God Bless Our Homeland Ghana!!