ACCRA: The Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission (NMC), Mr. George Sarpong, has underscored the importance of holding newspapers and online publishers accountable for unethical reporting on their platforms. He emphasized that media owners must ensure their journalists adhere to high ethical standards, highlighting the critical role of accountability in maintaining journalistic integrity. According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Sarpong made these remarks during the launch of a new Code of Ethics for the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG). The event, organized by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) in Accra, aimed to address ethical challenges in the media industry. Mr. Sarpong called on PRINPAG to lead by example, ensuring that the newly established code applies not only to journalists and reporters but also to publishers, who play a crucial role in gatekeeping. Mr. Sarpong stressed that the value of a code of ethics lies in its enforceability for all members, including publishers. He pointed out that holding publishers accountable for false publications would encourage them to fulfill their gatekeeping role and prevent the dissemination of false information. He remarked on the growing trend in Ghana of holding the weak responsible for the actions of the powerful, stating that this must be addressed, especially in the context of journalism. To ensure the successful implementation of the PRINPAG Code of Ethics, Mr. Sarpong proposed that the Association establish effective enforcement mechanisms and a complaints unit to encourage compliance. He also urged PRINPAG to publicly call out members who violate the code, thereby reinforcing ethical practices in the industry. Mr. Edwin Arthur, President of PRINPAG, expressed gratitude to the MFWA for supporting the development of the code. He noted that the digital age presented challenges such as fake news, misinformation, and disinformation, making the code essential for guiding the media landscape. Ama Kodjo , Program Director of DW Akademie, highlighted the importance of the revised Code of Ethics, stating that it comes at a crucial time when efforts are being made to safeguard freedom of expression and press freedom. She emphasized that the publication of the code reaffirmed a commitment to upholding the integrity of journalism.