Accra: Parliament has commended the media for their professionalism in covering its Appointments Committee public hearings to vet the nominees of President John Dramani Mahama. However, due to distractions caused by their frequent movement on the floor, Parliament has issued some directives to regulate their mode of coverage during the Committee's sessions, to ensure the smooth running of proceedings.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Bernard Ahiafor, the Chairman of the Appointments Committee, made the announcement on Thursday during his opening remarks at the Committee's public hearing. Mr. Ahiafor urged all media personnel to comply with the new directives to minimize movement on the floor during the hearings.
The directives include restricting movement, particularly behind the Chairman and nominee, to minimize distractions. Camera placement is to be confined to areas not beyond the first part of the table after the seat of the nominee, ensuring that proceedings are captured without disrupting seating arrangements or obstructing members' views.
Additionally, the use of mobile phones is restricted to prevent disruptions, with users prohibited from moving beyond the designated camera areas. Media personnel who are not part of the Parliamentary Press Corps or accredited for coverage must obtain express permission from the Media Relations Department to access the proceedings.
By adhering to these directives, Parliament aims to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted vetting process for the President's nominees.
