The National Media Commission (NMC), has called for the review of laws relating to security and media especially those about prohibited areas within the context of the Constitution (1992).
In its ruling in the petition brought before it over the treatment meted out to Citi FM’s Caleb Kudah by operatives of the Ministry of National Security and the subsequent invasion of the premises of Citi FM & Citi TV on the 11th last month, the Commission took the view that all institutions in a democratic state must act within the law and adopt approaches that reflect democratic values.
A release by the NMC signed by its Executive Secretary, George Sarpong said the outcome of the Commission’s settlement meetings under the Coordinated Mechanism for the Safety of Journalists following a response from the Ministry of National Security concluded that the handling of Mr. Kudah and their presence at the premises of the media house were “excessive and unprofessional”.
The Commission welcomed the actions taken so far by the Ministry and hoped they represented a renewed commitment to democratic approaches to the management of security in the nation. The Commission further stated that all journalistic enterprise must be carried out openly and follow thoroughly the due process.
It said in moments where overriding national interest may necessitate the use of undercover methods, journalists require greater care and circumspection to ensure their safety. It concluded by calling for regular orientation programmes for both the media and security operatives so each recognizes and appreciates other’s role.
