Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-02-02 19:13:24
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has taken notice of the “escalating unbecoming and unprofessional” conduct of journalists at the Africa Cup of Nations and is now taking steps to address the issue. In a meeting with the local organizing committee and police, CAF discussed potential solutions to this problem and raised their concerns with various organizations representing journalists at the tournament.
Moving forward, CAF has announced that any media practitioner who engages in wild celebrations and abuses other media colleagues will be immediately removed by security and have their accreditation withdrawn. This also applies to any media representatives involved in fights or physical altercations in media areas. Additionally, CAF has prohibited filming in the media tribune and live streaming from the mixed zone, and has stated that vulgar language towards coaches or players will not be tolerated.
The recent group-stage exit of the Ghana team led to a standoff between Ghanaian journalists and the players, as it became evident that the players were avoiding the customary post-game mixed zone. This resulted in the players being escorted to their team bus under heightened security measures.
The International Sports Press Association has condemned the “deplorable” behavior of journalists at the Africa Cup of Nations, denouncing the pitched battles, attacks, and invectives that have been on display since the start of the tournament. The association expressed their distress at the spectacle that certain colleagues have been exhibiting to the world during the CAN 2023.
Numerous accredited reporters covering the tournament have been seen wearing their national team jerseys and vocally supporting their teams during games, often celebrating loudly after goals or victories. In one instance, an Ivorian journalist with press credentials was filmed dancing shirtless after the team’s win on penalties over Senegal.
Tensions have also arisen among the media, with frequent arguments breaking out as journalists scramble for buses at the tournament. Specific altercations have occurred between Guinean and Senegalese journalists before their nations’ group game, as well as between Moroccan media and South African representatives during their teams’ match on Tuesday.
Considering the events that have transpired, CAF and other related organizations are taking a strong stance against the unprofessional conduct of journalists at the Africa Cup of Nations. They are making it clear that such behavior will not be tolerated, and appropriate measures will be taken to address any infractions. It is important for all media practitioners attending the tournament to act with professionalism and respect while fulfilling their roles in providing coverage.
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