Gov’t doesn’t expect favourable media headlines as a condition for engagement – Kwakye Ofosu

Government officials, including Minister of State for Government Communications Felix Kwakye Ofosu, have emphasized that they do not anticipate positive press coverage from the media as a prerequisite for collaboration. During the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Ofosu affirmed the government's resolve to uphold media freedom, emphasizing the importance of journalists questioning the administration, examining public expenditure, investigating institutions, and scrutinizing decisions made by public officials.

He stressed that a democratic government must be prepared to respond to challenging questions and accept legitimate criticism without expecting favorable headlines from journalists. Ofosu further urged the media to be allowed to criticize the government when it fails, recognize achievements when they occur, and demand explanations when the public interest demands it.

Additionally, he highlighted the urgent need to safeguard journalists from attacks, threats, and unlawful detention while they perform their professional roles. Allegations of such incidents, including those involving security personnel, must be thoroughly investigated, and accountability must be enforced if wrongdoing is verified.

These remarks follow a series of concerning incidents involving the safety of journalists and the state of media freedom in Ghana. Between 2022 and January 2026, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) documented over 50 cases of media attacks, arrests, and harassment. The government reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside media stakeholders to ensure that the constitutional rights to freedom of expression and media independence are respected in the day-to-day experiences of journalists.