THE National Union of Journalists (NUJ) have urged the Government to allow media personnel to do their rounds in public places, in order to provide news coverage.
“We hope the Government and public allow media practitioners to cover news at common areas, with special permission given to pass roadblocks.
“This is important to ensure we can curb the spread of COVID-19 and allow journalists to their jobs as well,” NUJ president Farah Marshita Abdul Patah said, in a statement.
On that note, she urged Government officials and the private sector to conduct their press conferences online, as many MPs and Ministers have contracted COVID-19.
Farah said that journalists are also at risk of contracting COVID-19 as they expose themselves to the public frequently. However, their vital role in a democracy is often overlooked by many quarters.
“The number of journalists has dwindled in recent years. Despite all that, they still have to cover issues like COVID-19, floods, political issues, court cases and others.
“With that in mind, NUJ will continue to protect the safety and welfare of our media practitioners. At the same time, we urge reporters to take care of themselves and follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs).
“And if any media personnel experience COVID-19 symptoms, please get yourselves tested and adhere to all quarantine regulations,” she remarked. – Jan 17, 2021.
