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President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasized the vital role Ghanaian journalists play in preserving the country’s democracy during the 28th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, which took place on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
This is especially important as the 2024 elections approach. Speaking to a group of media experts, the President underlined the mounting difficulties brought about by false information, misinformation, and the digital era.
The President said at the festivities honoring 75 years of outstanding journalism that although technology has democratized information access, it has also led to new risks. In today’s media environment, when social media platforms facilitate the quick dissemination of information, journalists must make sure that the truth wins out over lies.
“In this digital age, we face new challenges—disinformation, misinformation, fake news, and sensationalism—that can distort the electoral process. Journalists must rise to the occasion by being the gatekeepers of truth,” the President stated.
With the country set to embark on yet another crucial election in December 2024, President Akufo-Addo called on the media to report with integrity, fairness, and accuracy, ensuring that citizens are well-informed to make decisions that affect their future. He stressed that the stakes are higher than ever, and the role of the media has never been more critical.
“The responsibility of the media during elections cannot be overstated. It is through your work that citizens are informed about the policies of political parties, the integrity of candidates, and the issues that matter most to their lives,” he added.
The President’s speech also reflected on the broader role of journalism in shaping Ghana’s democracy. He credited the media for its role in promoting transparency, accountability, and the public good, particularly in periods of political transition. He highlighted the media’s contribution to the restoration of democracy in 1992 and its continued involvement in educating the public and safeguarding democratic values.
The President noted that journalism, as the “fourth estate,” has been pivotal in moving Ghana forward. He urged media practitioners to maintain their professionalism and safeguard the public’s trust by adhering to the principles of truth, fairness, and impartiality.
However, he was quick to caution that with great power comes great responsibility. “The bond between journalists and the public is built on trust, and it is this trust that must be continually safeguarded by your professionalism and dedication to accuracy, fairness, and balance,” he said.
As a passionate advocate for press freedom, President Akufo-Addo recounted his efforts in advancing the rights of journalists in Ghana. He highlighted his government’s commitment to passing the Right to Information Act, which empowers journalists and the general public to access critical information to hold leaders accountable. This, coupled with the repeal of the Criminal Libel Law during his tenure as Attorney General in 2001, has strengthened the foundation of press freedom in Ghana.
President Akufo-Addo, whose term as president is set to end, reflected on his long-standing relationship with the media. Since it would be his final event as President of the Republic, he underlined the importance of going personally. He prioritized attending the ceremony despite having just returned from a hectic schedule at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, acknowledging the critical role the media has played in both Ghana’s democratic journey and his leadership.
President Akufo-Addo concluded by praising the tenacity, bravery, and commitment of Ghanaian journalists. He reiterated his conviction that a free and active press is essential to democracy and urged the media to fulfill its responsibility as the guardian of justice and truth as the nation gets ready for the 2024 elections.
“I remain deeply committed to ensuring that the media in Ghana remains free, vibrant, and independent. Your work is essential to the strength of our democracy, the integrity of our elections, and the progress of our nation,” the President declared, leaving the audience with a message of hope and responsibility as they prepare for the next chapter in Ghana’s political history.
Source: Ghanatodayonline.com
