OccupyGhana, a pressure group has decided to discontinue the widely tolerated practice of handing out cash to journalists who show up to cover events and report.

A statement issued to the Ghana News Agency by George Andah of OccupyGhana said "the practice of handing out cash when journalists cover events flies in the face of ethical journalistic practice, as it can be construed to suggest an inducement for  the favorable  reporting  of   an  event. It also potentially raises questions about the accuracy, fairness and balance of the stories that are eventually written."   

The statement further noted “fully cognizant that the practice of paying ‘soli’ provides a fertile ground for corruption to thrive."

George Andah said this decision was taken to demonstrate OccupyGhana’s anti-corruption stance and also to establish for the record that the movement is not about talk alone but also about deeds.

He said although they believe such action has the potential to “hurt” coverage of OccupyGhana events, "we believe it's the right decision."

"OccupyGhana stands in solidarity with the many journalists who do not insist on nor request cash handouts before they do their jobs. In fact we take this opportunity to acknowledge their principled stance and hope that their compatriots will come to accept the wisdom of their position.

"Once again we salute these patriotic journalists who have decided to put Ghana first on this journey to get Ghana work again   by covering and reporting OccupyGhana’s activities. We cannot achieve this collective goal without you,”  he added.        

The statement said “let us be the generation to plant trees today so the next generation can enjoy the shade.