NMC urges circumspection in coverage of religious debates

The National Media Commission (NMC) has called on the media, particularly editors, radio and television presenters and talk show hosts to exercise the greatest sense of judgment, circumspection and sensitivity in their coverage and analysis of matters regarding religion and ethnicity, particularly the practice of religion in educational institutions.

It said particular attention should be paid to all discourse on issues regarding the practice of religion in educational institutions.

A release signed by Ambassador Kabral Blay-Amihere, Chairman of the Commission and copied to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) indicated that the Commission had noted with concern the tone of coverage and discussions regarding religion and ethnicity in the past couple of days.

“The relative peace, harmony and stability our country has enjoyed over the past 58 years have been built upon the collective tolerance of our forebears. Our generation owes this to ourselves and to future generations to preserve this harmony and cordial relations amongst various religions and peoples” the release stated.

It said while all Ghanaians, including major stakeholders including the Government, civil society, educational institutions, faith based groups, traditional authorities and the general citizenry would be exercising their right to free expression and opinion, the Commission believed the debate and discussions could be held without rancour and bitterness.

“The experience of Africa demonstrates that any deviation from this can be a recipe for mayhem”, it added.