Journalists to exhibit professionalism in soccer tragedy reportage

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on Thursday urged journalists, who are covering the soccer tragedy to exhibit great professionalism in their work.

Journalists must also co-operate with all institutions involved in helping the nation overcome the tragedy, a statement said in Accra.

"They should also do well to adhere to Article 16 of the GJA Code of Ethics, which requires that in cases of personal grief, distress, journalists should exercise tact and diplomacy in seeking information and publishing."

The statement, which was signed by Mrs Gifty Affenyi-Dadzie, President of the Association, commended journalists, who with courage and selflessness kept vigil in order to carry out an up-to-the-minute report of the national tragedy.

The GJA said it is deeply saddened by the wanton loss of life and the destruction of state property and agreed with the decision of the government to order a probe into the whole incident.

It also expressed shock at the death of the 126 soccer fans at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday evening, following the Hearts-Kotoko league match.

"We take this opportunity to express our condolences to all bereaved families and our sympathies to the injured."

The Association highly commended all medical staff and individuals, who helped in the evacuation of the dead and the injured to hospitals.