Irresponsible use of the media to tarnish people's reputations very unfortunate - Rev. Lawrence Tetteh

The Chaplain of the Ghana Christian Council in the UK and Ireland, Reverend Canon Dr. Lawrence Tetteh, has expressed concern over the rate at which most media spaces are used to tarnish the reputation of some distinguished Ghanaians.

He said that in recent times, Ghana has witnessed a troubling trend where some people in the media, both traditional and digital, have been used to tarnish the hard-earned reputations of many respected and responsible individuals.

According to him, it is very unfortunate that sensationalism, character assassination, and unverified reports, among others, have become the order of the day.

He added that these are driven by the pursuit of higher ratings on social media engagement at the expense of a commitment to truth and integrity, and this undermines the ethics of true and responsible journalism.

Underscoring the need for media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics, "verify facts before publication, and give opportunities to individuals to respond to allegations."

"This irresponsible behavior does not only harm individuals targeted but also undermines the trust and respect the media in Ghana has gained in the past. The irresponsible behavior also undermines trust in the media, which is the fourth realm of the state," he said.

He said it was time people desisted from behaviors where individuals take away people's dignity and undermine authorities.

Going into the 2024 election, the world-renowned televangelist also expressed concern over the need for the media to be responsible and maintain decorum to ensure peace.

He also called on the GJA, the NMC, and all other stakeholders to ensure the codes of ethics of the media are used effectively.

He was addressing a press conference ahead of a 3-day healing and deliverance crusade organized by St. Cyprian's Anglican Cathedral of Kumasi.