The Chief Executive Officer of African Media Initiative, Mr Eric Chinje, has urged African journalists to be active in determining the quality of leaders that would govern any nation in the continent.
Chinje gave the advice in a transcript from an online workshop for journalists on ‘Reporting on Elections in Africa’, organised by the U.S. Department of State for journalists from across Africa.
“Elections have since become the mode for determining entry into the circle of national leadership.
“And the leaders who will ensure that Africa remains an actor in world affairs this century will come to power through elections. And in this, the role of media is critical.
“Journalists should understand what elections represent and figure out how we cover these intensely political, economic and social activities in the life of any nation,’’ he said.
The media expert said that it was imperative for journalists to know that elections were meant to strengthen democratic institutions in their countries.
Chinje also said that it should be the responsibilities of journalists to determine the quality of leaders as well as ensure peace and stability in their countries and in the continent.
According to him, the future of the continent is linked to what happens during elections.
He urged journalists to always monitor the activities before, during and after the conduct of elections in their communities and countries as well as across the continent. (NAN)