SHOCKING! Is this all MFWA could say about News File brouhaha?

THE NEWSFILE BROUHAHA
I have read a lot of commentary about the newsfile team not accepting some panelists from the NPP because those proposed panelists “don’t meet the standard of the programme.” I don’t know exactly how the host announced the issue. But whatever the case, below is my position:

1. It’s unfortunate that talk programmes in the media are made to appear as though they are meant for political parties especially the NDC and NPP. The parties then behave as if they have proprietary rights over such programmes. It’s time to end this. What matters is not the usually partisan views from NPP and NDC folks. It’s time to focus on subject matter experts.

2. For the records, producers of programmes have the preserve, authority, right and liberty to determine the focus, structure, tone, frame, context etc of their programmes. They determine how best to serve their audience within the parameters of the ethics of the job. In doing so, they are the ones who decide who is qualified, fit for or meet the standards of their programme to be featured as guests, panellists, interviewees or contributors. Sorry, but let NPP and NDC folks hear that they have no role in deciding this for the media.

3. It’s time for the media to assert their independence and insist on programme quality. I don’t know the background of those who were turned away by the producers of the programme. But if the producers thought that based on the issues for discussion on the day, the focus and nature of the programme, those folks did not fit the bill, so be it. It is their programme and they decide how it should run to meet the standards, objectives and philosophy behind it.

Multimedia Group apologises to NPP, reps over Newsfile gaffe

Meanwhile, Multimedia Group has apologized to the representatives who were denied coming on the News File show. 

Source: Suleiman Braima – Media Foundation For West Africa