The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has underscored the historic relationship between politics and journalism, describing their collaboration as critical to Ghana’s democratic development.
He said although the relationship between the two disciplines had dangled between “holy” and “unholy” engagement, the ability of the two to put aside individual interests and work in the national interest had helped to strengthen Ghana’s democracy.
The minister made the observation in an address delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, Shamima Muslim, at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) 77th Anniversary Symposium in Accra last Wednesday.
The symposium was held on the theme: “GJA @77: Building on Our Legacy, Advancing Ethical Journalism and Shaping the Future of Digital Media”.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu said Ghana’s democratic journey provided clear evidence of what could be achieved when politics and journalism worked together in the national interest.
He cited the media’s contribution to voter education, public debate and holding state actors accountable as central to Ghana’s return to constitutional rule in 1992.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu said that foundation had helped to sustain eight successive peaceful elections and contributed significantly to Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy.
He said the historic relationship between politics and journalism had, over the years, produced moments when both sectors rose above individual interests because “our very survival as a nation depends on it”.
GJA at 77
The minister commended the GJA for 77 years of service, sacrifice, advocacy and commitment to journalism and Ghana’s democratic development.
He said the anniversary should not only be viewed as a celebration, but also as an opportunity for the association and journalists to reflect on the past, examine the present honestly and approach the future with courage.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu paid tribute to past and present executives of the GJA for their contributions to the growth, resilience and relevance of the association.
He, particularly, acknowledged former GJA President, Gifty Afenyi Dadzie, for her efforts in securing a permanent home for the association.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu said journalists should be able to depend on the GJA for professional development, guidance in addressing emerging challenges and for support whenever legitimate journalistic work was threatened.
He, however, stressed that the responsibility was mutual, saying journalists must uphold the professional standards necessary to protect the credibility of the profession.
“Those of us entrusted with the leadership of the GJA are custodians, not owners, of this institution,” he said.
He urged the current leadership to strengthen the association and hand it over in better shape to the next generation.
Press freedom
The GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, said for 77 years, the association had remained an important voice in the development of Ghana’s media landscape.
He said the GJA had consistently advocated an environment where journalists could work without fear, intimidation or undue interference.
Mr Dwumfour said the association had defended the principle that a free press was essential to democracy and accountable governance.
He said the GJA had also collaborated with successive governments, state institutions, civil society organisations, development partners and media organisations to strengthen journalism and to promote professional standards.
Mr Dwumfour said the association had organised training programmes, workshops, conferences and stakeholder engagements aimed at improving the capacity of journalists across the country.
He added that the GJA had also spoken against attacks on media practitioners and engaged relevant authorities whenever journalists came under threat.
