The Minister in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, says the government has issued firm directives to all security agencies to end the harassment and assault of journalists in the line of duty.
Speaking at the launch of the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards in Accra on Thursday, October 9, the Minister said the directive has already led to a noticeable decline in attacks on media practitioners in recent months.
“In more recent times, we’ve not heard of such reports. That is because firm instructions have been issued to all state security agencies to reform the way in which they relate to the media and to show a bit more courtesy than they are doing at the moment.”
According to Mr Ofosu, the government remains fully committed to protecting journalists and ensuring that their work is respected.
“President Mahama and the government he leads are willing to work closely with the GJA to ensure that this unhealthy development is stopped and that it does not recur, even as we make progress to advance the frontiers of media freedom,” he said.
He, however, said that the government’s new policy direction was yielding results and called for a stronger partnership between the government and the media to consolidate gains in free expression.
The Minister acknowledged the critical role of the press in promoting transparency and holding leaders accountable.
“Without you, whatever it is that we do in government will not be known to the public. You are an important ally in governance, and it is through your efforts that the people of Ghana know how the mandates and resources they have entrusted to us are being used.”
He also admitted that the media landscape faces challenges, including poor working conditions, low remuneration, and financial constraints that hinder operations.
“Governments will continue to partner media organisations to explore ways of improving these conditions,” he said.
“Our doors, as government, are open. I have a listening ear and an open-door policy. You can walk in at any time to share challenges or suggestions on how government can improve its relations with the media.”
Mr Kwakye Ofosu officially declared the 29th GJA Awards launched and inaugurated the planning committee, commending the Association for its innovation in turning the event into a more engaging experience.
President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, in his remarks, urged journalists to remain firm, impartial, and responsible in their reportage, particularly on issues relating to security and the environment.
“Ghana stands at a crossroads. We face threats of environmental degradation, social discord, and misinformation.
“The menace of illegal mining continues to ravage our lands and poison our rivers, threatening not only our natural heritage but the very survival of our people.”
He revealed that this year’s awards theme, “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security, and the Fight Against Galamsey,” reflects the country’s most pressing challenges.
“Peace and security, the cornerstones of our national stability, are tested daily by division, extremism, and disinformation. It is within this context that the media must rise firm, fearless, and fair as custodians of truth and conscience,” he said.
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