President John Dramani Mahama has affirmed his commitment to addressing the violence that marred the 2020 and 2024 general elections in Ghana. Investigative reports detailing attacks on citizens, security personnel, and journalists have been formally submitted to the Attorney General, paving the way for legal proceedings. These reports, meticulously documenting the incidents, will serve as the foundation for holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that victims receive appropriate compensation. This decisive action underscores the President’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice for those affected by election-related violence. This commitment is crucial for fostering public trust in democratic processes and preventing future recurrences of such violence.
The President’s announcement comes amid growing concern over the safety of journalists and the erosion of press freedom in Ghana. He acknowledged the nation’s declining position in global press freedom rankings, attributing this downward trend to the increasing instances of harassment and intimidation faced by media professionals. He specifically referenced the unresolved murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale, a stark reminder of the grave dangers journalists face in pursuing truth and accountability. The repeated incidents of journalists being subjected to brutality at the hands of security agencies further underscore the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect the media landscape and ensure journalists can operate without fear of reprisal. The President’s recognition of these pressing issues signals a potential shift towards a more supportive environment for the press.
In a move aimed at bolstering the media landscape and safeguarding press freedom, President Mahama has pledged to reinstate the Media Development Fund in the upcoming year’s budget. This fund will be managed transparently by a joint board comprising representatives from both the government and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). This collaborative approach aims to ensure the fund’s equitable and effective allocation to enhance media capacity and promote responsible journalism. The fund’s revival signifies a renewed commitment to supporting the media’s crucial role in a democratic society and empowering journalists to carry out their duties effectively.
President Mahama recognizes the critical need for improved relations between the media and security forces. He has advocated for structured dialogue and engagement between the GJA and security services to develop clear protocols that guarantee the safety and security of journalists while they perform their duties. These protocols will aim to establish clear guidelines for interaction, minimizing the potential for misunderstandings and ensuring that security personnel respect the rights of journalists to cover events freely and without interference. This initiative seeks to create a safer operating environment for journalists, enabling them to report on critical matters without fear of intimidation or violence.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration and open communication, President Mahama received executives and council members of the GJA at the Jubilee House. This meeting provided a platform for constructive dialogue on critical issues affecting the media landscape, further reinforcing the President’s commitment to engaging with journalists and addressing their concerns. The visit signifies a positive step towards fostering a stronger relationship between the government and the media, essential for a healthy democracy.
In a reciprocal gesture of goodwill, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour extended a formal invitation to President Mahama to grace this year’s GJA Awards ceremony. Notably, this year’s event will be held in Kumasi, marking a departure from the traditional venue. The awards ceremony, tentatively scheduled for late October or early November, pending the President’s availability, presents an opportunity to celebrate journalistic excellence and recognize the vital contributions of the media in Ghana. The President’s potential attendance would further underscore the government’s recognition of the media’s role in a democratic society.
