Josiah
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo praised the vital contributions of Ghanaian journalists to the nation’s democratic journey during his address at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, held on Saturday, 28th September 2024.
The event, which celebrated 75 years of excellence in journalism, was themed “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: The Role of the Media in Democratic Governance and Elections.”
In his keynote speech, President Akufo-Addo expressed deep appreciation for the media’s steadfast dedication to truth, transparency, and accountability. He emphasized how journalism in Ghana has chronicled historic events and actively shaped the country’s development, especially during the struggle for independence. He recalled how early journalists, through fearless reporting, ignited the spirit of freedom and national unity during colonial times.
“Long before 6th March 1957, journalists were already playing a crucial role, using their pens and voices to fuel the fires of freedom,” the President remarked, citing prominent figures like Dr. J.B. Danquah and Kwame Nkrumah, whose journalistic efforts laid the foundation for Ghana’s independence movement.
President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the indispensable role of the media in sustaining Ghana’s democracy. He credited journalists for their critical role in restoring democracy in 1992, educating the public on their rights, providing information on political processes, and promoting transparency in governance.
“The story of Ghana’s democracy is incomplete without the media,” the President noted, applauding their work in monitoring elections, reporting on irregularities, and ensuring peaceful transitions of power.
Acknowledging the modern challenges journalists face, such as disinformation, misinformation, and the growing influence of social media, the President called on the media to remain vigilant as gatekeepers of truth, particularly with the 2024 elections approaching. He emphasized the importance of integrity and professionalism in ensuring credible electoral processes.
As this was President Akufo-Addo’s final appearance at the GJA Awards as President, he reflected on his journey with the media throughout his career. He recalled key moments, including his legal battles to safeguard press freedoms, such as the landmark court case against the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) to ensure fair access to state media, and his work in repealing the Criminal Libel Law in 2001 as Attorney General.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to media freedom, calling it a cornerstone of democracy. Looking ahead to his retirement from active political life, he invited journalists to visit him in Kyebi, where he hopes to continue engaging with the media and reflecting on Ghana’s democratic progress.
In closing, President Akufo-Addo reminded journalists of the crucial role they play: “The media has always been, and will continue to be, a cornerstone of our democratic journey. Your work is essential to the strength of our democracy, the integrity of our elections, and the progress of our nation.”
The awards ceremony, which honored the country’s top journalists, served as a fitting tribute to 75 years of Ghanaian journalism and its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s democratic governance.
