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Ghana's Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has introduced legislation to establish a mandatory professional certification and chartering system for journalists seeking employment in the country's public sector. The Private Member’s Bill is a response to the deteriorating ethical standards and professional conduct within Ghana's media industry, as identified by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

Speaking during a courtesy call by GJA executives, Speaker Bagbin emphasized that without a formalized charter, unethical practices, sensationalism, and unprofessional behavior have compromised the integrity of journalism. He explained that under the proposed legislation, public sector recruitment for media and communications roles would be contingent upon meeting rigorous professional benchmarks and adhering to established ethical codes.

Drawing inspiration from established regulatory bodies like the Institute of Directors and chartered public relations institutions, the new framework would bring transparency and accountability to the media sector. The GJA, under President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, welcomed the collaboration and emphasized that the legislation would not be used to suppress press freedom or silence independent voices. Instead, it aims to restore prestige, discipline, and uncompromising professionalism to Ghanaian journalism.

By directly linking public sector employment to an ethical charter, the legislature hopes to improve the living conditions of journalists and ensure that only highly qualified and ethically-minded practitioners are hired for public sector communication roles.