The BDP dismisses the front page headline carried by the Weekend Post newspaper of Saturday 01 -07 July 2023 as misinformed, unethical and a grand display of carelessness. The emblazoned headline is supported only by a shallow article found in the back pages of the same publication whose hidden and protected source can only be the drifting Facebook ghost account, Rre Ratsie Sethako, which has dedicated its idle time to manufacturing gossip about the internal affairs of the BDP.
The BDP appreciates and promotes the significance of journalism in holding political leaders accountable, but we are disappointed that the article in question is more speculative and sensational rather than backed by concrete evidence. We believe that such irresponsible reporting contributes to the erosion of public trust in the media and creates unnecessary divisions among the general public.
We call on members of the BDP to differentiate between unbiased reporting and baseless accusations that are aimed at sowing seeds of discord within the BDP and proper news reporting. The allegations that the BDP leadership is engaged in plotting against each other or seeking to dethrone its elected leadership without providing any substantial evidence to support the claim is evidential to the malicious intention of the article. The credibility of the article piece is further diminished by it’s over reliance on vague statements and anonymous sources. Readers of the Weekend Post and the public must demand of journalists to uphold the principles of fairness, integrity, and accuracy, and unfortunately which are pitiably absent from the Weekend Post style of reporting.
We urge the Weekend Post to adhere to standards of journalism essential to promoting transparency and fostering trust among its readership if it is to be considered a credible newspaper. The newspaper would do well in future articles to approach such sensitive topics with thorough research, multiple perspectives, and verifiable facts. Reporters should take it upon themselves to fulfill their duty to inform the public accurately and responsibly, without fuelling unnecessary animosity.
We reiterate that the BOP is a firm proponent of a free media and recognizes the vital role of journalism in a democratic society. We believe therefore that it is essential for media outlets to prioritize the pursuit of truth over click bait headlines and controversy. The Weekend Post should take heed that a responsible media is essential for fostering a healthy political dialogue and enabling society as a whole to make informed decisions. We call on the paper to consider the effects of their reporting and hereafter attempt to report with more accuracy, impartiality, and professionalism.
K avis Kario
Secretary General