Justin Frimpong Kodua, General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), delivered a powerful message advocating for the protection of journalists and the strengthening of press freedom in Ghana. Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service and Get-Together meeting organized by the Ashanti Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kodua emphasized the crucial role of journalists in a democratic society and condemned acts of impunity against them. He underscored that a thriving press, free from intimidation and violence, is essential for transparency, accountability, and good governance. His call for respect for the rights and liberties of journalists transcended partisan lines, highlighting the importance of a free press for the benefit of all Ghanaians. Kodua further challenged journalists to uphold the highest ethical standards, prioritizing truth and resisting external influences that could compromise their integrity. He emphasized that ethical journalism is the bedrock of a credible media landscape and essential for fostering an informed citizenry.
The event, held on Friday, served as a platform for dialogue and solidarity within the media fraternity and beyond. Attended by a diverse group including media professionals, security personnel, traditional leaders, and political representatives, the gathering symbolized a collective commitment to safeguarding press freedom. The presence of the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Chief of Kwabre Kenyasi, Barima Fredua Agyemang Ababio, who chaired the occasion, further underscored the significance of the event and the importance attached to the issues being discussed. The gathering provided an opportunity to not only address the challenges faced by journalists but also to celebrate their contributions to Ghanaian society.
Kingsley Hope, the Ashanti Regional President of the GJA, echoed Kodua’s sentiments and brought to the forefront a recent incident of violence against journalists. He specifically addressed the attack on journalists at the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council (ARCC) during the Council of State election on March 10, 2025. Hope vehemently condemned the assault and demanded justice for the affected journalists, calling for the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators. His strong stance emphasized the GJA’s commitment to protecting its members and ensuring that such acts of violence are not tolerated. He stressed the importance of holding those responsible accountable to deter future attacks and create a safe environment for journalists to perform their duties without fear.
Hope’s appeal for justice resonated with the underlying theme of the event – the need for a secure and enabling environment for journalists. He emphasized that the safety of journalists is paramount for the functioning of a democratic society and urged authorities to take swift and decisive action. His message of solidarity with the assaulted journalists underscored the unity within the media fraternity and their resolve to fight against impunity. By demanding accountability, Hope highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that perpetrators of violence against journalists face the full consequences of their actions.
Barima Fredua Agyemang Ababio, in his capacity as the chairman of the event, highlighted the importance of responsible journalism. He stressed the crucial role of fact-checking in ensuring the accuracy and credibility of news reporting. In an era of rampant misinformation, Ababio’s call for diligent verification of information resonated deeply. He urged journalists to prioritize accuracy and resist the temptation to publish unverified information, emphasizing the potential consequences of misinformation on social cohesion and peace. His advice served as a reminder of the significant responsibility journalists bear in shaping public discourse and the importance of upholding the highest journalistic standards.
The Thanksgiving Service and Get-Together meeting served as a powerful platform to address critical issues concerning press freedom and the safety of journalists in Ghana. The calls for an end to impunity, coupled with the emphasis on ethical journalism and responsible reporting, highlighted the collective commitment to strengthening the media landscape. The event provided a forum for open dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of working together to protect journalists and ensure a free and vibrant press. The messages delivered by Kodua, Hope, and Ababio underscored the vital role of a free press in a democratic society and the need for continuous efforts to safeguard the rights and safety of journalists.
