Senior journalists speak up as the world celebrates world press day |Street Magazine
 |
| Sylas (left) and Kule (right) |
3rd May every year is a date which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom, in an attempt to evaluate press freedom around the world, defend the media from attacks on their independence as well as paying tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.
As Uganda bond to the rest of the world to celebrate the day, senior
journalists and journalism lecturers have raised voices over the erosion of
journalism in the era of 21st century. Via social media, Byaruhanga
Sylas a lecturerand Information officer at Kyegegwa district dedicated the day
on a thought of governments in the world impolitely treating journalists even
on their duty. “As the world celebrates world press day, let’s think about how
the world's governments have been treating media as they try to practice
journalistic work. As of Uganda, article 29 and 41 explains access to
information and freedom of expression which should guide media practice.” He
posted.
However Sylas cautions journalists not to take blame only to
governments but look at their bad deeds too. “we should not also forget whether we have
also acted professionally in our endeavors coz we have seen them engage in
invasion of privacy, discussing prejudicial to court issues, publishing
unresearched, baseless and allegations as true information, conflict of
interest”. He added
Kule Gerald a senior journalism lecturer at Ibanda University says
that different journalists have used the name of journalism to oppress the poor
for personal gains. “Irresponsible journalism shouldn't be celebrated even an
inch. Today, many 'journalists' use journalism as a tool to oppress the poor
and disadvantaged, to make money and forget their duty to the society, to
torture and retaliate against their enemies and to reach all their individual
and selfish ends”. He says
“We have moved away from the real journalism. Journalism should be
a social responsibility, a public interest based calling, and a watchdog.
Therefore be responsible, ethical, professional and we shall celebrate you.” He
added.This year marked the 25th celebration of World Press Freedom Day and the happenings took place in Accra, Ghana under UNESCO. The main event jointly organized by UNESCO and the Government of the Republic of Ghana was under the global theme "Keeping Power in Check: Media, Justice and the Rule of Law"
Comments