Journalists are not enemies of the state, security institutions – Dwumfour
Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has called for justice for media practitioners attacked or assaulted in the line of duty. The post Journalists are not enemies of the state, security institutions – Dwumfour appeared first on Ghana Business News .
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, leader of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), urged for justice in cases involving journalists who have been attacked, arrested, or threatened since 2022. Speaking at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Dwumfour emphasized that journalists are not adversaries of the state or security institutions, but rather allies in national progress.
He lamented the over 50 incidents involving journalists facing such dangers, calling for thorough investigations and swift prosecution of those found guilty, particularly when state personnel are implicated. Dwumfour highlighted the growing threats against media professionals and advocated for the creation of a specialized police unit to address journalist safety and related concerns.
The GJA President pledged to continue protecting journalists' interests and backing legislation to enhance their working conditions and welfare, stating that supporting journalists is vital for media independence, integrity, and a robust democracy. He cautioned that journalists cannot provide fearless, unbiased, and ethical reporting without adequate consideration of their economic conditions.
Dwumfour urged media professionals to follow industry regulations, stressing that compliance measures should be carried out fairly, professionally, and with empathy for the human and economic impacts on affected individuals. He praised the award recipients and thanked President John Dramani Mahama for backing press freedom initiatives.
Government Minister Felix Fosu Kwakye encouraged media owners and stakeholders to invest in training, improve conditions, and ensure journalist safety while performing their duties. The GJA Media Awards ceremony, which honored the media's role in Ghana's democratic governance, national unity, and socio-economic growth, also called for responsible journalism, press freedom, and professionalism in the digital age.
Thirty-six journalists were recognized for their outstanding contributions in diverse fields, including three from the Ghana News Agency.
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