President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has emphasized the vital role of journalists in shaping Ghana’s democracy at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards, which also marked the association’s 75th anniversary.
He highlighted the evolution of journalism in Ghana, stressing its role in the nation’s fight for independence and the development of modern democracy. “Journalism in Ghana has not only witnessed history but actively shaped it, pushing the boundaries of freedom, transparency, and accountability,” he said, paying tribute to pioneering journalists who faced colonial repression.
President Akufo-Addo praised the media for safeguarding Ghana’s democratic processes, from the restoration of democracy in 1992 to ensuring free and fair elections. “Elections are the bedrock of any democracy, and the media is the light that sustains them,” he noted, while cautioning against the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, urging journalists to remain gatekeepers of truth and integrity.
Reflecting on his presidency, he expressed appreciation for the media’s role in his administration’s successes, citing the repeal of the criminal libel law in 2001 and the passage of the Right to Information Act as key milestones for media freedom. He described the Right to Information Act as “a commitment to the belief that the media should be free to report without fear of persecution.”
President Akufo-Addo called for continued collaboration between the media and government to shape Ghana’s future, emphasizing the importance of upholding the values of truth, fairness, and impartiality.
“Let us not just look back at how far we have come, but also look forward to the future we must build together. The media has always been and will continue to be a cornerstone of our democratic journey,” he said.
The 28th GJA Awards celebrated the contributions of Ghanaian journalists over the past 75 years and served as a call to action to continue defending democracy through responsible journalism. The event concluded with a tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty and a renewed commitment to upholding media freedom in Ghana.
