Graphic remains credible in face of competition — NMC Chairperson
The Chairperson of the National Media Commission (NMC), Professor Akua Opokua Britwum, has said that Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) remains the benchmark of credible journalism in the country and, therefore, should not compromise its integrity in the face of growing competition.
She said, although the media landscape had become increasingly competitive, particularly with the rise of digital platforms, Graphic’s long-standing reputation for accuracy, credibility and responsibility should not be sacrificed in a bid to chase trends or profits.
Prof. Britwum was speaking during a working visit to the GCGL office in Cape Coast, where she engaged staff on operational challenges and other concerns. She was accompanied by Rev. Isaac Owusu, a member of the commission.
The chairperson also visited the offices of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation, the Ghanaian Times, and the Ghana News Agency, all in Cape Coast.
Credibility
Prof. Britwum further said that Graphic’s credibility placed it in a unique position within the media space, adding that “once it is Graphic, it is believed.”
She said such a reputation needed to be protected by the company at all costs.
The chairperson said that while other media outlets might prioritise traffic and sensationalism, Graphic had a national responsibility to uphold ethical standards and contribute to societal stability.
She explained that the visit was part of the commission's efforts to engage directly with media offices in the regions to better understand their challenges and incorporate their concerns into policy development.
“We are not here to impose decisions from Accra,” she said. “We are here to listen, to understand your realities, and to use your input to guide policy and strengthen the institution,” Prof. Britwum added.
Funding
The chairperson called for innovative approaches to sustain the organisation while maintaining its core values.
She encouraged the staff to remain committed despite prevailing challenges and assured them that their concerns would inform decisions at the national level.
Support
The Central Regional Correspondent of Daily Graphic, Shirley Asiedu-Addo, said the paper had been projecting the region remarkably despite some constraints.
She, however, said that limited resources, coupled with transportation challenges and inadequate equipment, had restricted their ability to initiate and pursue stories, particularly in the hinterlands.
Ms Asiedu-Addo called for support for state-owned media, considering their unique role and mandate to be responsible and balanced in their reportage.
For his part, the Circulation Officer in the region, Eric Sasu, expressed concern over the decline in newspaper sales due to the emergence of new media.
He, therefore, appealed to the commission to engage relevant stakeholders, particularly government institutions, to support the company through renewed subscriptions.
