Abstract:
The paper aimed to investigate adherence to the principles of ethical journalism in
reporting news at Fana Broadcasting Corporate television (FBC). The research tried to
identify and analyze ethical problems observed in some selected conflict and developmental news
reporting broadcast by FBC’s television from July 01, 2020, to December 01, 2020. A case
study design was used. Besides, the study investigated the process of the news making
and reporting, what kinds of ethical problems occurred at FBC television news reporting,
how ethical principle of journalism are utilized in the news reporting process, and the
major causes and challenges not to adhere to the principles of journalistic ethics
properly in the news reporting. To do this, the study used both quantitative and
qualitative content analysis, and interviews. This research used both random and
purposive sampling techniques. The findings of the study indicated that the majority of
FBC’s news content, whether it was developmental or conflict news, was presented
within the aim of lauding the government actions in front of the public. The news was
presented in the way it served the government. In the case of news coverage, FBC gave
priority for government issues. It was rare that news of public interest was given
coverage. It was also found out that almost all of the tone of FBC news about government
was positive. It was rare to find news stories that were critical of the government. Based
on the study, it is recommended that the media need to stop being the mouthpiece of the
government and need to be a voice to the voiceless. The journalists should strive to
adhere to the core journalistic ethical principles.
