Shamima Muslim, Deputy Government Spokesperson, affirmed the essential partnership between government and media for safeguarding Ghana’s democratic gains. This collaboration strengthens accountability and ensures continued national progress. Ms. Muslim made these remarks at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) 77th-anniversary symposium in Accra.
The relationship between politics and journalism has significantly contributed to Ghana’s democratic development. This includes the nation’s return to constitutional rule in 1992. It also encompasses the sustenance of eight successive peaceful elections. The media’s role in voter education and public debate has been central to these achievements.
Ghana’s democratic journey provides clear examples of what is possible when media and political actors work in the national interest. The media’s advocacy over two decades led to the passage of the Right to Information Act. This law has empowered citizens to demand accountability from public officials. Such sustained collaboration underscores the media's foundational role in Ghana's governance framework.
Ms. Muslim, speaking on behalf of the Minister of Government Communications, highlighted the media’s contribution to peace journalism and national health campaigns. She also cited anti-corruption efforts and constitutional review processes. Coordinated media campaigns during public health emergencies have disseminated timely information and countered misinformation effectively.
The Deputy Government Spokesperson acknowledged occasional tensions between government and media regarding press freedom. However, she maintained that Ghana has largely upheld a strong record in this area. She urged stakeholders to protect this achievement through continued vigilance. This includes sensitivity to issues affecting media freedom and ethical practice.
Ms. Muslim expressed concern about the growing threat of misinformation and fabricated content. She called for stronger verification and protection of information integrity. This is a democratic and national imperative, she stated. Journalism must embrace technology while upholding human judgment, facts, fairness, and equity.
Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, GJA President, urged journalists to prioritize truth, accuracy, and public trust. He emphasized these values over speed, popularity, or follower counts. Journalists must exercise discipline in verifying information, especially in today's complex media environment. This environment is characterized by misinformation and rapid technological change.
Mr. Chris Holliday, Deputy British High Commissioner to Ghana, described the media as “national infrastructure.” Journalists connect citizens through facts and ideas, much like roads connect people physically. He advocated equipping journalists with skills to confront emerging challenges. These include artificial intelligence, misinformation, and attempts to manipulate public understanding. The biggest risk may not be censorship, but manipulation, he warned.