The Ghanaian government has reaffirmed its commitment to respecting and sustaining press freedom. Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, the Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), stated this commitment. She spoke at the 2nd Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day Honours Night in Accra. The government will continue to respect human rights principles. This applies as journalists carry out their constitutional duties.
Madam Bampoe Addo urged journalists to remain committed to professional and patriotic principles. This is especially important in an era of disinformation, which means false or misleading information. She also praised the GJA for its advocacy for press freedom in Ghana. The press is a crucial defence against unverified information. An ethical and independent press verifies facts before publishing. This is the only credible answer to the chaos of misinformation. The global theme for this year’s World Press Freedom Day was “Shaping A Future At Peace, Promoting Press Freedom For Human Rights, Development And Security”.
Ghana’s position on the 2026 World Press Freedom Index improved significantly. The country moved up from 52nd to 39th place. Madam Bampoe Addo highlighted that this progress will be sustained and deepened. She also drew attention to threats and physical attacks against journalists. She stressed that no democratic society should tolerate harm to media practitioners. Journalists have played a vital role in national life. They have reported on issues like disease outbreaks and held authorities accountable. The Ghana Journalists Association was commended for its institutional support for press freedom advocacy.
Professor Akua Opokua Britwum, Chairperson of the National Media Commission, called for a review of media working conditions. She also suggested reviewing financing modules for media institutions. These factors can threaten adherence to professionalism. Mr. Kwabena Dwumfour, GJA President, emphasized the media’s role in promoting democracy. He commended institutions supporting press freedom. However, he cautioned against recklessness and unprofessionalism from some journalists. He noted various lawsuits filed against journalists and media outlets. He stated that journalists should be protected, not criminalized, for their work.
The GJA President also expressed concern about specific laws. These include sections of the Electronic Communication Act (2008) and the Criminal and Order Offences Act (1968). He called for a review of repressive provisions in these laws. The GJA will continue to advocate for better working conditions, stronger legal protection, and media independence. A strong media is essential for a healthy democracy. The Ghana News Agency was among those honored for its impact on the media landscape.