By Langston Joe Wilson, LINA Maryland County Correspondent
HARPER, April 17 (LINA) – Maryland County District #1 Representative P. Mike Jurry is calling for a more objective approach from local journalists and media outlets to help build the county’s image.
Rep. Jurry believes that though there are issues in the county such as ritualistic killings, political and tribal differences, he opined that a fair and balanced portrayal of the county can play a significant role in attracting new opportunities of investments in infrastructure, trade, agriculture and health.
Representative Jurry is concerned about how the county’s image is being presented in various news outlets, urging local journalists to cover negative and positive events equally.
He expressed that sensationalism, and biased reporting can overshadow the positive developments and stories of resilience within the county and the region.
“We have a lot to be proud of in our county,” Rep. Jurry stated, adding, “We have investments in infrastructure, educational initiatives, and developed community programs that truly uplift our residents. However, when the media focuses on negative narratives, it distracts from the progress we are making.”
The Maryland County lawmaker who is currently visiting his constituents in the county, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, convened a media roundtable meeting with local radio stations managers and correspondents of leading national media institutions to remind them of their ethical role in reporting balanced and accurate stories, especially on the propagation of the county’s progress.
“Maryland County has a very rich history based on which you can attract international partners’ attention; not forgetting the health sector, education, infrastructure, mining, and some key development initiatives,” Rep. Jurry noted.
The Maryland County lawmaker used the event to encourage journalists to seek out positive stories alongside their coverage of challenges and issues faced by the county.
“It’s not about avoiding difficult topics; it’s about presenting a complete picture,” he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Maryland’s local media stakeholders have hailed Hon. Jurry for his observation and promised to take the message to their various institutions.
They added that though Rep. Jurry’s statement will in no way affect the objectivity of the media in the county, it is a wake-up call to enhance ethical practice.
