By Mary Mutonga
Windhoek, July 4. The Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) has filed an official complaint against the NEW ERA Publication Corporation, accusing the media outlet of engaging in biased and subjective reporting. The university claims that the publication violated the Self-Regulatory Code of Ethics and Conduct for Namibian Print, Broadcast, and Online Media, specifically Chapter 1, Sub-section 2 and 4.
In a detailed letter addressed to the Namibia Media Ombudsman, Mr. John Nakuta, NUST raised several concerns regarding the conduct of Mr. Edward Mumbuu, a journalist at the New Era Newspaper. The complaint highlighted four key issues that, according to the university, are indicative of the publication’s failure to uphold the principles of responsible journalism.
Firstly, NUST alleges that Mr. Mumbuu provided the university with insufficient time to respond adequately. On multiple occasions throughout the year, NUST claims to have been given response deadlines as short as 4-8 hours. Such limited time frames are deemed inappropriate, particularly when dealing with matters of significant importance. NUST officials argue that this practice is inconsistent with the standards of good journalism.
NUST further contends that Mr. Mumbuu’s reporting has been prejudicial, favoring one side of the story despite the existence of multiple perspectives. The university maintains that even when presented with substantial evidence that suggests a more nuanced conflict, the journalist consistently sides with a particular narrative. Objectivity, NUST emphasizes, should be the cornerstone of journalistic integrity, serving the public interest by providing balanced coverage.
Of grave concern is NUST’s allegation that New Era has published unsubstantiated claims without verifying their authenticity. The university asserts that the newspaper has frequently relied on hearsay statements without indicating whether the information has been verified or confirmed. NUST argues that such practices fall short of the expected standards of responsible reporting, raising doubts about the accuracy and reliability of the information presented.
The university’s final accusation against New Era is the personalization of news, targeting specific individuals while neglecting others. NUST believes that the publication’s selective reporting violates the privacy and reputation of individuals involved in the conflict, creating an unequal portrayal of the situation. They emphasize the importance of fair and impartial coverage that encompasses all relevant perspectives.
In light of these concerns, NUST urgently seeks an audience with the Media Ombudsman to address the issue and find a resolution. The university is prepared to provide material evidence to substantiate their claims and hopes that a fair and impartial investigation will be conducted.
NUST acknowledges the significance of media freedom in a democratic society but respectfully requests that New Era assign a more senior and objective journalist to handle their matters until the complaint has been thoroughly examined and resolved.
The Namibia Media Ombudsman’s office is yet to comment on the complaint, and stakeholders are eagerly awaiting a response.
Namibia Daily News will continue to monitor this development and provide updates as the story unfolds. ~Namibia Daily News
