The Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL) has taken a strong stand against the Electoral Commission’s (EC) recent directive that restricts media access to collation centres for the upcoming 2024 elections. GFL Secretary General Mr. Abraham Koomson voiced concerns during an interview, highlighting that only a select few media outlets—eight in total, consisting of three radio stations and five television stations—will be allowed to cover these crucial venues. He characterizes this decision as an attempt to stifle media coverage, which he refers to as a “backdoor attempt to gag media.” Koomson has called upon various democratic stakeholders, including religious and traditional leaders, labour unions, and the media itself, to unite against these restrictive measures, emphasizing the essential role that a free press plays in ensuring integrity and transparency in the electoral process.
Koomson’s remarks underscore the importance of the media in keeping governmental powers accountable and providing the public access to vital information that allows for informed decision-making. He asserts that the EC’s directive impedes press freedom, which is a cornerstone of democratic governance. The Secretary General condemns actions that hinder what he sees as a fundamental right for the media to operate freely, arguing that such restrictions undermine the democratic fabric of the nation. He has also urged political parties, civil society groups, and governance institutions such as the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) to take a firm stand against the EC’s directive, claiming it jeopardizes constitutional democracy.
In his appeal for immediate action, Koomson has called on the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) to consider legal challenges against the EC’s restrictions. He argues that defending press freedom is crucial for the sustenance of Ghana’s democratic principles, which have often been hailed as a model for Africa. Drawing attention to the historical significance of the nation’s democratic achievements, he warns that allowing the EC to impose such restrictions could lead to instability and potential chaos, undermining the very essence of Ghana’s democratic journey.
Koomson emphasizes that freedom of expression is not merely a media issue, but a broader concern for all Ghanaians. By limiting media access, the EC not only undermines transparency in the electoral process but also erodes public trust in democratic institutions. He voiced concerns that restricted access would stifle public discourse, a critical component of any democratic society. The implications of the EC’s directive could foster an environment of skepticism surrounding the electoral process, thus damaging citizens’ faith in governance and democratic participation.
With the 2024 elections poised to be particularly contentious, Koomson highlights the heightened stakes involved. The two main political parties are preparing for a fiercely competitive election, and many analysts consider this electoral cycle crucial for the nation’s future. He points to potential tensions arising from the election as a reason to scrutinize and challenge the EC’s media access limitations. The GFL Secretary General urges the Commission to reconsider its decision, questioning the criteria it may use to determine which media organizations are deemed credible or legitimate. Such lack of transparency could risk paving the way for electoral manipulation.
In conclusion, Mr. Koomson reiterates the pivotal role of the media in facilitating a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. He insists that the EC should view the media as a collaborator rather than an adversary in achieving credible elections, effective both before and after polling day. The onus, he argues, lies on democratic stakeholders and civil society to unite and safeguard press freedom as a fundamental component of Ghana’s thriving democracy. The urgency for collective action against these restrictive measures is palpable, as the integrity of Election 2024 hangs in the balance.
