21 Aug 2024

Departments of Information and Broadcasting Services (DBS) are ramping up their preparedness for the upcoming general elections scheduled for October.

This initiative was highlighted during an elections coverage workshop held in Serowe on Tuesday.

Mr Osupile Maroba, the Chief Public Relations Officer of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), urged journalists to operate within legal boundaries and adhere to t reporting principles.

He emphasised the sensitivity and constitutional regulations surrounding elections, cautioning that any reporting that incited or perpetuated violence could disturb peace, safety, and security.

In light of these concerns, Mr Maroba underlined the importance of maintaining ethical standards at all times.

He stated, “Journalists are obligated to provide fair, accurate, and valid perspectives concerning constituent groups, organizations, candidates, and society in general.”

Furthermore, he requested that journalists covering the elections refrain from wearing any political party attire to ensure impartiality throughout the electoral process.

Mr Maroba advised journalists to  desist from offering any promises to any candidate with regard to proceedings of elections inside a polling area.

He implored the media to follow legal statutes when reporting elections, noting Botswana was known for its free and fair elections.  

Mr Thebeyame Ramoroka, the acting deputy director of  Department of Information Services, emphasised that reporters must exercise caution when covering elections.

He warned that stories that incite or perpetuate violence were detrimental to the country’s future, compromising security and stability.

Mr Ramoroka stressed the importance of reporters, camerapersons, and engineers in election coverage and highlighted the need for them to be equipped with the appropriate tools of the trade.

He underscored the necessity of adhering to editorial guidelines to ensure that professional standards were consistently met. Additionally, he urged journalists to familiarise themselves with the Electoral Act and related statutes to provide the best coverage possible.

“Adherence to principles of fairness, truthfulness, accuracy, balance and objectivity is crucial at this time,” he said.

Regarding quality control and assurance, Mr Ramoroka encouraged journalists to conduct thorough research to master their topics, noting that the quality of reporting and photography should reflect the pioneering role of government media.

He advised journalists to distinguish facts from opinions, refrain from publishing or broadcasting anything in doubt, and avoid conflicts of interest, as well as obscenities, vulgarities, or repulsive details.

He mentioned that election coverage begins with the demarcation of constituencies and voter registration, continues through political parties and primary elections, and culminates on polling day with the establishment of a new government.

For her part, Ms Setlogelo Tlhagiso, the acting deputy director of Department of  Broadcasting Services Department, echoed Mr Ramoroka’s sentiments, stating that both departments should break down silos and collaborate effectively to achieve significant milestones.

She assured that both departments were making every effort to prepare for the elections and concurred that adherence to professionalism and ethical standards was vital for enhancing democracy and ensuring fair and free elections.

She guaranteed that all aspects concerning her department’s election readiness would be on track well in advance of the upcoming general elections. Ends