Bishop Fianu chairs new Volta Regional Media Advisory Committee

Most Rev. Emmanuel Kofi Fianu S.V.D, Catholic Bishop of Ho Diocese and Vice President of the Ghana Catholic Bishop’s Conference, has been appointed Chairperson of the Volta Regional Media Advisory Committee.

The seven-member committee was formed to ensure journalists’ safety, particularly during the election period, and will address media concerns, settle disputes, promote responsibility, and combat misinformation.

Other members include: Bruce Senam McBrain, Deputy Regional Manager, Methodist Education Unit (Coordinating Member), Dr. George Mawusi Afeti, former Rector of Ho Polytechnic, Ms. Yaa Opuni Amankwa, Registrar, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Mr. Anthony Bells Kafui Kanyi, Former Volta Regional Chairman, Ghana Journalists Association, Andrews Dodzi Adugu, Esq., Senior State Attorney & Mr. Nenorla Kwashie Gidiglo, Retired Educationist.

Mr. Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafo, Chairman of the National Media Commission, who swore in the committee members, emphasized the importance of verifying information before publication to avoid spreading misinformation. He urged journalists to conduct thorough research and challenge unsubstantiated claims, especially as the December General Elections approach.

Bishop Fianu stated that the committee will promote a free, independent, and responsible media landscape by educating media practitioners and citizens on maintaining peace before, during, and after the elections. He emphasized that Ghana is the only country we have, and anything we do to disturb the peace will have a negative impact on citizens. He called on media practitioners to be circumspect in their reportage and objective.

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Bishop Fianu stressed the importance of peaceful reporting and urged media practitioners to work closely with the committee to preserve the region’s stability.

Rev. Fr. Samuel Eco Kornu, Director of Social Communications, Ho Diocese, stated that the Catholic Church is collaborating with other religious groups to promote peace throughout the electoral period.

He called on all lay faithful to collaborate with church leaders to contribute positively to the peace enjoyed in the region. He appealed to media practitioners to be guided by journalistic ethics and avoid hate speech on the media landscape.