In a media soiree organized by the Volta Regional Secretariat of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mr. Makafui Woanyah, the Volta Regional Chairman of the NPP, expressed concerns about the potential dangers of biased political programming on television and radio, particularly in the lead-up to the 2024 elections.
Mr. Woanyah emphasized the importance of neutrality and professionalism in political discourse to prevent a looming disaster.
During the event held in Ho, Mr. Woanyah appealed to media owners and show hosts to uphold principles of fairness and neutrality.
He cautioned against favouritism, stating that biased programming could be perceived as a disservice to the people, journalism, and democracy.
He urged show hosts to act as referees rather than coaches, match commissioners, or players in political discussions.
“It will be a gaping disservice to the people, journalism and democracy if show hosts and managers are inclined to a side of a political divide,” said Mr Woanyah.
He stressed the significance of competence and impartiality in moderating political shows, calling for adherence to acceptable standards and avoiding ethnic undertones.
Mr Woanyah encouraged show hosts to research issues thoroughly, act as gatekeepers, and earn the confidence of panellists and the audience through fair and balanced moderation.
Mr Perry Nuwordu, the Regional Communications Director of NPP, explained that the meeting aimed to strengthen the relationship between the party and the media in the region, focusing on winning the 2024 general elections.
He highlighted the NPP’s life-transforming projects across various sectors, emphasizing the need to dispel misinformation about the party’s achievements.
The Regional Secretary of the Party, Mr. Pope Yao Yevoo, suggested that show hosts misinforming the audience should be removed from their positions to safeguard the credibility of television and radio stations.
Despite acknowledging economic difficulties, Mr. Yevoo expressed optimism about the achievements of the NPP, including the continuity of essential services and the ongoing free Senior High School program.
The meeting concluded with discussions on the diverse voting pattern of the NPP in the region during the recent Congress to elect a flagbearer and the party’s strategies to increase votes in the upcoming elections. Party stalwarts from the region were present at the event.
Source: Maxwell Awumah
