Bagbin assures GJA of support for bill on journalists’ conditions of service

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has pledged Parliament’s support for a private member’s bill aimed at improving the conditions of service for journalists and other media practitioners. GJA President Albert Dwumfour shared this assurance at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, stating that the Speaker made the commitment following a recent meeting between them.

Dwumfour emphasized that the assurance was a crucial step towards enhancing the welfare and professional dignity of journalists. He highlighted that the legislation could tackle issues such as fair pay, job security, decent working conditions, and overall well-being of media practitioners. Dwumfour stressed the need for Ghana to adopt a more structured approach to protect the economic interests and professional integrity of journalists.

He noted that persistent problems like low remuneration, unstable jobs, inadequate service conditions, delayed payments, and limited professional growth were negatively impacting journalists. Dwumfour argued that the welfare of journalists extends beyond the workplace, affecting their independence and the media’s role in holding institutions accountable.

He also mentioned that improving journalist welfare is crucial not only for the media but also for the health of Ghana’s democracy. The GJA is ready to collaborate with Parliament, media owners, labor stakeholders, and other institutions to create a practical and sustainable legislative framework. The Association is eager to see the Speaker’s leadership transform this assurance into concrete legislative actions.