Mahama’s government will not restrict press freedom – Minister

Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to free speech/press freedom, while cautioning against the misuse of digital platforms.

Speaking at the launch of the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Accra on Thursday, Mr Ofosu said although the government supported free expression, it also had a duty to safeguard national unity.

“Government does not intend to curb freedoms. President Mahama strongly supports free speech, but he has a responsibility to ensure that our social fabric is not torn asunder,” he said.

Addressing the growing influence of digital media, Mr Ofosu warned about threats and misinformation spreading via social media platforms and emphasised the need for regulation that does not infringe on press freedom.

“The same levels of regulation that apply to traditional media must be brought to bear on new media. But we will not act in any way that undermines journalistic freedom,” he assured.

He acknowledged that journalism had evolved beyond traditional methods due to social media and artificial intelligence (AI). 

While some viewed digital content creators as “intrusive,” he said they were a growing part of modern information dissemination.

“In the coming years, it is clear that many traditional media forms may no longer be viable. Social media will be the order of the day,” the Minister said, urging the GJA to embrace those changes by mentoring, training, and including emerging digital practitioners in its fold to enhance their skills.

He noted that the government would be fully represented at the awards ceremony, which will take place at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi under the royal patronage of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II.

Mr Ofosu commended the GJA for sustaining the prestigious awards scheme for nearly three decades, calling it “the most sought-after within the journalistic fraternity.”

Mr Alex Apau Dadey, the Executive Chairman of KGL Group, stressed the media’s role in fostering public-private partnerships to drive national development.

“Government alone cannot transform the country. A collaborative media landscape is crucial to shaping effective policies and mutual respect between the public and private sectors,” he said.

He lauded the GJA’s efforts in promoting ethical journalism and pledged KGL’s continued support for media professionalism.

Mr Huseyin Gungor, Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, noted that the media landscape had become more challenging due to misinformation and disinformation, which threatened public trust.

While technology had made content creation more accessible, it had also increased the responsibility on professional journalists to uphold integrity and truth.

Mr Ginger congratulated the GJA for recognising journalistic excellence and praised the resilience of journalists who continued to serve the public interest.

Mr Prince Oheneba Nana Kwaku Duah, Managing Director, Ashanti Green Initiative, expressed pride in Kumasi hosting the awards, calling it a milestone for the city.

He highlighted the media’s important role in promoting sustainable practices in Ghana’s mining sector and commended journalists for their courage, objectivity, and public service.

Mr Albert Dwumfour, the GJA President, outlined the activities for the “awards weekend” including a welcome reception at the Lancaster Hotel on Friday, November 7, followed by a health walk on Saturday morning, November 8. 

The main awards event will take place at 1600 hours at Manhyia Palace, with a royal dinner reception hosted by the Asantehene at 1900 hours.

Two committees; the Awards and Planning committees, were inaugurated to oversee the selection process of Awardees, and overall organisation of the event, respectively.

The 29th GJA Award is on the theme: “Safeguarding Ghana’s future: The role of the media in promoting peace, security, and the fight against galamsey.”

Source: GNA

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