Why invite media if they are not allowed to do their job?

There have been cases of event organisers who believe they can dictate to the media who they can or cannot talk to.

The lack of engagement with the press is evident. These organisers don’t seem to understand how newsrooms work. They expect journalists to parrot the often news-light press releases.

On Aug 17, a company organised an event to mark its sponsorship with several national athletes. An invitation to the media was sent, via WhatsApp, days earlier. However, nowhere was it stated that interviews were not allowed.

Fans flocked to the venue, obtaining autographs and snapping selfies with their idols.

This journalist approached one of the ‘stars’ and requested for an interview. He obliged and answered several questions.

However, barely a few minutes later, a representative from the company stopped the interview, stating: “No interviews. We will send a press release.”

When asked why no interviews are allowed, the company representative replied: “I didn’t invite you!”

The athlete had an apologetic look in his eyes as he walked away.

Hours after the event, the staff member who invited the press apologised for what had transpired, saying he didn’t expect his superior to act in such a manner.

This highlighted a clear breakdown in communication within the organisation. However, that didn’t stop us from publishing an article about the athlete aiming for the skies.

Even ministers and members of royal families have paused to speak to the press. Journalists don’t expect special treatment, but if we receive an invitation to an event, we anticipate getting additional insights and the opportunity to speak to the ‘stars’ of the event.

This incident is just one of many where organisers tried to dictate what their guests could or could not do. If organisers want glowing articles about them, maybe they’ll have better luck adopting a cat, and call it Oyen.

They are rest assured that cats can’t talk back.