Sudanese journalists preparing to cover the country’s first multi-party elections in 24 years, met in the capital Khartoum this month to polish their skills and learn about their role in April’s polls. The Elections Reporting course, which was held by Thomson Reuters Foundation from 7-11 March, enabled the 14 participants from Sudan’s major print media to develop their reporting, writing and editing abilities as well as examine the main elements of democratic elections.
Trainers Lamia Radi and Heba Kandil reviewed the principles of free and fair polls, which included balanced coverage of all the candidates and issues, the voice of citizens, raising the credibility of the media and of individual reporters as well as legal dangers and ethical journalism.
In addition to the practical exercises and interactive lectures, which engaged the journalists in lively discussions and debates, participants were able to interview guest speakers on different aspects of the presidential and legislative elections in Africa’s largest country.
Election monitors from the Carter Center Ajay Patel and Said Sanadiki spoke about their role in the polls. Professor Zuhal al-Amin reviewed the constitutional rights of women’s political participation as well as the voting process and local monitoring. Human rights activist Adel Bakheet discussed the balloting system and set-up of polling stations throughout Sudan. Participants gave positive feedback and vowed to apply what they have learned in their coverage of the elections as well as in their general reporting.
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