The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has demanded an unqualified apology from Blessed Godsbrain Smart popularly known as Captain Smart for his ‘disreputable’ comments against female sports presenters.
“The Ghana Journalists Association demands an unqualified apology from Captain Smart for making unsavoury comments against female television sports presenters,” GJA said.
Captain Smart on his morning show on Accra-based Onua FM/TV and social media platforms allegedly accused female sports presenters of “chopping” players of the senior national men’s football team, the Black Stars.
“GFA must stop all-female TV presenters from following the Black Stars. In fact they “chop” the guys too much.” he tweeted after the Black Stars lost their last group stage game against Uruguay.
The GJA in its statement believes his comments are unprofessional and against the code of ethics of the Association.
“Indeed, we find the comments by Captain Smart sorely sexist, utterly unprofessional, grossly reprehensible, highly repugnant, and extremely offensive to ethical and professional standards.
“Article 6 of the GJA Code of Ethics 2017 provides that “A journalist recognizes the public’s right to fair, unbiased, accurate, accurate, balanced and comprehensive information.”
The statement added that the Association cherished the professional integrity and hard work of its female journalists which has yielded many works of positive impact.
GJA, therefore, called upon the Management of Media General to call Captain Smart to professional order in order not to put the positive image of the media institution into disrepute.
“No amount of derogatory comments, even from within the Media General stable, will lower our estimation and celebration of our fine female journalists,” GJA noted.
Source: graphic.com.gh
