Reporting Elections, Safety and Security of Journalists In pursuance of this duty, the journalist shall at all times defend the principles of freedom of expression in the honest collection and dissemination of news and the right to fair comment and criticism. Check and recheck-check and recheck the facts to avoid being sold dummies by those with hidden agendas. Be wary of devious politicians for they will go to any lengths to discredit their opponents in order to get into power. Search for new voices, views and comments and explanations from diverse news sources. The journalist shall not suppress essential information or falsify documents. The journalist shall do the utmost to rectify any published information which is found to be harmfully inaccurate. The journalist shall observe professional secrecy regarding the source of information obtained in confidence. The journalist shall not be the purveyor of discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, tribe, ethnicity, language, religion or political affiliation. Never compromise on professional integrity. Journalists’ stock in trade should be anchored in the codes and ethics of the profession as espoused by various media houses, media representative and media development 67