Journalists have been urged to be accountable to their audience as stories they broadcast and publish influence perception and behavior depending on how they are framed.
In an era where breaking news attracts a bigger audience, Michael Wakabi, a journalist and media trainer discourages journalists against rushing to publish unverified claims saying it is a disservice to society and undermines journalism.
Wakabi who was speaking during a webinar on Ethical Journalism and responsible reporting on and for safer internet on Wednesday notes it’s better to wait and get it right than be the first to hit the publish button.
He explains that journalists risk sharing manipulated images if they do not do due diligence and verify information that they find on social media platforms.
Wakabi also urges journalists to always seek to do no harm by distinguishing what is necessary for public consumption from what is personal.
This comes at a time when mainstream journalism is facing a hit as audiences especially the youth shift preference to social media feeds.
The webinar was organized by Consent, a non governmental organization
By Justine Muboka
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