THE decline in journalisic standards in Guyana today is frightening, more so because the masses are easily swayed by news reports.Misrepresentation of facts and even outright lies is a regular feature in most private media, almost all of which seem to have espoused and endorsed one political party or another; and we are living in a society that doesn’t completely understand what proper journalism is.
It is far better that a story be deferred than an incorrect report published. However, apart from embracing Opposition agenda, private media houses base their reporting with the advertising and sales dollars in mind, so ethics and impartial reporting of news and events run a poor second.
Reporters can and do make mistakes, but most often skewed and sensational reporting is deliberate and many stories published, almost on a daily basis, are subsequently revealed to be complete fabrications. The credibility of most senior media operatives is in doubt because they have never proven to be impartial in carrying out their functions as information officers.
Reporters should refrain from reporting on issues without verifying facts, and in the absence of supporting evidence. And sometimes factored into the equation is spite, malice, and personal grievances, as well as the greed of some reporters, who are either tempted by cash or kind to either duck a story or slant it in an unethical way that misrepresents the facts.
There are few journalists who can conduct proper investigative journalism, and there is a dearth of investigative journalists in Guyana. Mere academic qualifications are not enough. Balance and impartiality are key watchwords that define a professional reporter; but there are no indications that a change of attitude and application to a work ethic is on the horizon of Guyana’s media world.
As the May 2015 election looms ever nearer, Guyana is in for some interesting times and it is likely the sensational will continue to predominate over the professional in the landscape of Guyana’s media enclaves.