The media on Wednesday came under intense criticism when it was accused of fanning ethnicity, promoting sexual promiscuity and engaging in acts that could possibly undermine national security.
The comments came from Prof. Kwasi Ansu-Kyeremeh, Ms Audrey Gadzekpo, both of the School of Communication Studies, Legon; Mr Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafoh, Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission (NMC); and Mr Tim Acquah-Hayford, a former chairman of the NMC, all speakers at a public forum organized by the National Commission on Civil Education (NCCE) for top executives of the media and representatives of political parties.
The speakers deplored the bad and harsh language in the media stating that such attitude tends to have a negative impact on the country's development because it fans division in the society.
Professor Ansu Kyeremeh, who set the tone for the discussion, asked media personnel to tone down the intemperate language used in their reportage indicating that it is the responsibility of the media to ensure that its language promote peace and stability. He added that since the Criminal Libel Law has been repealed nothing should be done to offend the sensibilities of the people.
He said the School of Communication Studies will, therefore, provide guidelines for journalists in the country to enable them to communicate more effectively.
Ms Gadzekpo, on her part, deplored the excessive use of harsh language, particularly on women, which according to her, brings women into public ridicule and contempt.
She said since language has connotations and denotations, users must be careful in selecting words that would not to hurt the sensibility of others.
The other speakers have all expressed similar sentiments.
