A Comparative study on the Practice of Investigative Journalism in Ethiopia: The case of Ethiopian Broad casting Corporation and Ethiopian Satellite Television.
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Date
2024-04
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
This research was conducted to examine the practice of investigative journalism on the programs “Aynachin” on EBC and “Golgul” on ESAT TV programs on the time intervals of three recent years. To conduct this study, the researcher employed a mixed research approach. Sample programs from both media institutions were collected to examine the practice of investigative journalism. One hundred and twelve questionnaires were collected from respondents who were requested to express their evaluation of the issues and gaps they observe in the two media institutions. In addition, in-depth interview was also conducted to gather the required data from the respondents for the study. Content analysis of the sample programs were critically analyzed depending on the criteria and standards of investigative journalism. The findings of the study indicated that the status of investigative journalism in EBC and ESAT, during three recent years was at an early stage with lots of gaps and problems. The majority of respondents agreed that there is absence of proper investigative journalism in EBC and ESAT. When respondents evaluate issues that “Aynachin” programs focused on corruption and good governance, whereas “Golgul‟s” focus were on corruption and abuse of power. Moreover, the respondents also reflected gaps by correlating “Aynachin” and “Golgul” programs. Both of the programs are not well researched; furthermore “Golguls” contents are not balanced. The main sources of the program were the public petition. On each TV channels producers were interviewed. They mentioned that they face various internal and/or externa challenges. Mainly findings are unwillingness of government, evidence, finance, security and skill on the journalist, accountability, and man power, and other as main challenge in both programs. From content analysis even though these programs were broadcasted as investigative journalism in EBC and ESAT respectively, the programs did not follow the format of investigative journalism and did not fulfill the standards of investigative journalism. The major challenges to practice investigative journalism in the Medias were government officials‟ intervention, lack of media managers and government commitment and lack of professionalism.