Rwanda journalists urged to help curb hate reporting

Rwanda journalists have been urged to rise up and condemn those who are associated with hate media, which could rekindle a violent conflict.

Anastase Shyaka, chief executive Rwanda governance board told reporters on Friday during celebrations to mark World Press Freedom Day in capital Kigali.

"It is high time for the media to change its language, we don't want to hear and read hostile propaganda in all forms of media. Hate media destroys societies and push nations into social, political and economic crisis," Shyaka said.

"Say no to hate speech to promote good governance. Media must be strong advocates for the passage of laws that guarantee citizens' right to information, which promotes transparency and accountability in governance."

He added that the importance of free media in building societies and promoting good governance cannot be underestimated.

Every year, May 3, the world celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom and as well pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.

Celebrations in Rwanda were held on Friday under the theme "Turning the Page of Hate Media in Africa."

It brought together local and regional media leaders, journalists, researchers, and media stakeholders.

According to Peacemaker Mbungiramihigo, executive secretary Rwanda media high council hate media has no place today in journalism in Rwanda.

"Hate speech has to be eliminated from each media. Don't write unhealthy and sensational news, if you continue to allow those who use that kind of language, the law will deal with you," he told media managers.

He noted that government does not tolerate any hate speech through radio talk shows and phone call in sessions.

"Media owners should institute guidelines to ensure strict adherence to the code of ethics of journalism. Let us not create conditions that can lead to any crack down on media freedom," Mbungiramihigo emphasised.

The Rwanda Governance Board has in the last few years spearheaded a series of reforms to streamline media sector.

During the genocide in Rwanda in 1994, the then Rwandan media played a major role promoting hate speech, tribalism and discrimination among Rwandans.

Collin Haba, president of Rwanda journalists association said that the media body striving to promote peace and unity among Rwandans, through a friendly media.

"The responsible journalism requires reporters to act in accordance with their personal and professional ethical standards," he noted. Enditem