Chief of Staff lauds media, CSOs

The Chief of Staff at the Presidency, Julius Debrah, has lauded the role of the media and civil society organisations (CSOs) in protecting Ghana’s democracy. 

“We are proud of our vibrant civil society, our fiercely independent media and our consistent effort to resolve political disputes through dialogue and judicial processes,” he said, adding that “this, we believe, is how a democracy not only survives but thrives.”

Democracy dialogue

Mr Debrah stated in his closing remarks at the end of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s Democracy Dialogue 2025 in Accra.

The one-day event, which was officially hosted by President John Dramani Mahama, was on the theme: “Why Democracies Die”.

The Dialogue was attended by key personalities such as former Presidents of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan and Olusegun Obasanjo, and Most Rev. Matthew Hassan Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese.  

Autonomy

Mr Debrah reiterated the need to strengthen the autonomy and capacity of electoral bodies, judiciaries and anti-corruption agencies, shielding them from political interference.  

He said leaders must commit to respecting their term limits, constitutional provisions and the sanctity of fair elections, even when it is difficult for them.

“A vibrant, responsible and fearless media is indispensable for holding power to account, and fostering healthy public discourse,” he stated. 
 — GNA