Tigray Herald፡November 20,2024 (Mekele)
Prepared by:
MediaWatch Tigray
Criticism of Medhin Gebreslasie and the Ethical Crisis in Journalism in Tigray
The recent interview conducted by Medhin Gebreslasie with Mr. Solomon Measho, a survivor of a harrowing assassination attempt, has laid bare the perils of unethical journalism in Tigray. The interview not only revealed Medhin’s unprofessional conduct but also underscored the broader dangers posed by media practices that neglect truth, empathy, and accountability. As Tigray embarks on its journey of post-genocide recovery, the role of ethical journalism in fostering peace, security, and democratic transformation cannot be overstated.
The Ethical Failures of Medhin Gebreslasie’s Journalism
Medhin’s interview with Mr. Solomon Measho stands as a stark example of how journalism can fail its moral and professional obligations:
Victim Blaming:
Medhin’s approach during the interview was devoid of empathy, marked by attempts to shift blame onto the victim himself. Such behavior not only disrespects survivors of violence but also creates a chilling effect, discouraging others from coming forward to share their stories. This approach is not just insensitive but actively harms efforts to address and prevent violence.
Spreading Misinformation:
By framing narratives without evidence and painting the victim as culpable, Medhin’s journalism contributes to the proliferation of misinformation. This exacerbates public confusion, deepens societal divisions, and undermines efforts to establish a shared understanding of Tigray’s challenges and solutions.
Weaponizing the Media:
Instead of fostering constructive dialogue or promoting healing, Medhin used her platform to amplify divisive and unfounded narratives. Such actions betray the fundamental purpose of journalism, which is to inform, educate, and unite communities.
The Broader Threat of Unethical Journalism in Tigray
Medhin Gebreslasie’s conduct is not an isolated case. Media platforms such as Brake Show, Zara Media, Dedebit Media, and Horizon Free Media have increasingly become vehicles for biased, inflammatory, and unverified reporting. Their actions threaten Tigray’s fragile recovery in several ways:
Inciting Civil Unrest:
By disseminating biased and unverified information, these platforms sow mistrust and division within Tigrayan society. This perpetuates conflict and obstructs efforts to foster unity and reconciliation.
Undermining Peace and Security:
The spread of false narratives destabilizes efforts to rebuild peace and establish political stability in post-genocide Tigray. Misinformation fuels hostility and can pave the way for authoritarian tendencies to take root.
Obstructing Democratic Transformation:
Democracy thrives on transparency and accountability, both of which require a healthy and ethical media landscape. In Tigray, the prevalence of unethical journalism threatens to derail political reforms and hinders the younger generation’s aspirations for a democratic and tolerant society.
The Role of Ethical Journalism in Tigray’s Recovery
Tigray’s future hinges on a media environment rooted in integrity, fairness, and accountability. Journalists have a critical role to play in shaping a society that values truth and justice. To fulfill this role, Tigray’s media must:
Promote Dialogue and Understanding:
Ethical journalism should bridge divides by bringing diverse perspectives to the forefront. Media must foster constructive dialogue that encourages cooperation and mutual respect.
Champion Justice and Accountability:
Journalists must challenge misinformation, expose corruption, and hold those in power accountable. By doing so, they can contribute to societal healing and political transformation.
Amplify Voices of Reform and Progress:
Figures like Mr. Solomon Measho represent the future of Tigray. The media has a responsibility to amplify such voices, which embody the principles of peace, reform, and justice, rather than silencing or discrediting them.
Building a Resilient Media Landscape in Tigray
To counter the growing tide of unethical journalism, Tigray must invest in robust mechanisms to monitor and improve media practices. This includes the establishment of independent bodies like MediaWatch Tigray, which can serve as watchdogs against misinformation and bias.
MediaWatch Tigray: A Vision for Accountability
MediaWatch Tigray aims to address the crisis in Tigray’s media by:
Monitoring and Investigating Media Practices:
Using advanced digital tools, MediaWatch Tigray will identify instances of disinformation, biased reporting, and unethical practices in broadcast and social media.
Engaging the Community:
MediaWatch Tigray will involve the Tigrayan community in its efforts. Through user-assisted journalism, citizens can report instances of suppression, misinformation, and media malpractice, fostering collective vigilance.
Challenging Media Monopolies:
By exposing concentrated media monopolies and their partisan agendas, MediaWatch Tigray will demand a media landscape that prioritizes truth and public interest over narrow self-serving narratives.
Slogans and Narratives for Ethical Journalism
“Misinformation is the silent weapon of division—Tigray’s future demands the truth.”
“Journalistic ethics are not optional; they are the foundation of democracy and justice.”
“A media that incites division is a threat to peace and progress.”
“The pen is mightier than the sword—only if it writes for truth and accountability.”
“Tigray’s recovery depends on a media that reflects its courage, resilience, and vision.”
Call to Action: Upholding Media Integrity
The people of Tigray must demand higher standards from their media. Platforms like Brake Show, Zara Media, and others must be held accountable for their content. Journalistic professionalism, impartiality, and truthfulness must replace the current culture of propaganda and misinformation.
The stakes for Tigray are too high to tolerate unethical journalism. In this critical period of post-genocide recovery, the media must become a beacon of hope, truth, and justice, reflecting the resilience and aspirations of the Tigrayan people.
Prepared by:
MediaWatch Tigray
For a future where journalism serves truth, justice, and democracy.
