Society

NCC boss calls for responsible reporting of Pope’s visit.

NCC President Speaking during presser in Yaounde yesterday

Media professionals in the country have been enjoined to ensure responsible coverage of the visit to Cameroon by the Holy See, Pope Leo XIV.
The appeal was made yesterday by the President of the National Communication Council, Joseph Chebongkeng. This was during a presser in Yaounde.

The appeal comes as the Holy Father commences his four-day visit to Cameroon today. The apostolic visit will see the Pope meet with authorities and Christians in the towns of Yaounde, Bamenda and Douala.

While addressing media practitioners during a presser, the boss of the media regulatory body stressed on the need to avoid sensationalism. He enjoined the media to be responsible in their treatment of the historic moment.

Chebongkeng reminded all media professionals across the nation that beyond its religious and diplomatic dimensions, the visit stands as a moment of profound symbolic importance for the country.

“As we are all aware, Cameroon is navigating a period marked by multiple challenges, particularly regarding security crises. These circumstances necessitate a constant effort to consolidate peace and social cohesion,” he said.

He stressed that in such context, the visit of the Supreme Pontiff is a much-needed call for reconciliation and brotherly love.

“The Pope, as the supreme moral authority of the Catholic Church, is a globally respected voice who embodies a universal message of peace, human dignity, solidarity, and reconciliation. His coming is a mark of esteem that honours our nation, comforts our people, and reminds us all that peace is a precious commodity,” he added.

Adherence to ethics governing journalism

Chebongkeng called on colleagues to strictly adhere to the ethical and professional standards governing journalism.

He mentioned that all media organs have to ensure that media coverage is conducted in line with the profound values of professional and ethical standards, ensuring a responsible handling of information and contributing to the preservation of social peace.

The NCC boss then stressed on rigour in the gathering and dissemination of information, scrupulous respect for facts and sources, restraint in addressing sensitive subject matter and the promotion of a unifying and civil discourse.

Beyond combating of disinformation and hate speech, he also enjoined them to reject sensationalism, manipulation, or exploitation.

“It is essential that the media approach this event with poise and grandeur. Now more than ever, you must act as vectors for peace, architects of social cohesion, and faithful messengers of peace,” he reiterated.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3761 of Wednesday April 15, 2026