By: Robleh M. Lafcanbe
On Tuesday, Hubaal media group was ordered to suspend
operations by the Maroodi-Jeh (Hargeisa) regional court. This event marks a
turning point in the rising tension between journalists and the
government. A battle SOLJA and CPJ claim
to be one sided, when in reality that is not the case.
The media in Somaliland plays an important role in the
lives of its citizens. It is the only way people of Somaliland, members of the Diaspora
and the international communities are kept informed about what is happening in
and around the country.
But when news reports only consist of biased statements
and false accusations – what do readers rely on?
A significant amount of news agencies in Somaliland have
yet to demonstrate ethical journalism.
Reports and articles are consistently filled with insults and character
assassinations. It is not a coincidence that journalists are finding themselves
at odds with the government and the public. These situations are the result of
poor journalism and a lack of understanding between the groups.
In order to move forward, the government, representatives
from various communities and media stakeholders should co-operatively
establish:
·
A national media code of
ethics to be followed by all journalists and media agencies
·
A national independent
media commission to serve as an intermediary between the public, the government
and the media
·
A national media code of
ethics will ensure that journalists are honest and fair and held accountable
for their work. An independent media
commission will be responsible for monitoring the media situation in Somaliland
and guaranteeing that the rights of journalists and the public/private citizens
they report on are protected.
SOLJA should also implement their own code of ethics for
their members to follow. It shouldn’t be the responsibility of the government
and the public to tell their members how to properly do their job. The Association should be more than just an
advocacy group. They should put more effort and time towards properly training
their members and preparing them to be responsible and professional
journalists.
There needs to be a collaborative effort towards
reforming the way media is conducted in Somaliland, otherwise the situation
will only get worse. This is an issue that can easily be resolved, as long as
it is done in the right way. In the end, the people of Somaliland will rely on
their media as long as journalists and news agencies do not take that for
granted.
The author of this article can be reached at
robleh.m@gmail.com or on Twitter – @RM_Laf
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