President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring Ghana’s reputation as a leader in press freedom on the African continent.
Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the President pledged to strengthen media independence and ensure justice for journalists who have suffered violence in recent years.
Addressing senior ministers of state, Members of Parliament, the Inspector General of Police, sponsors, and members of the media fraternity, President Mahama said it was a “great pride” to stand before them not only as President but also as a proud member of the GJA.
“The GJA has been more than a professional organization,” he said. “It has served as a crucial pillar in developing our democratic landscape, enhancing accountability, and advocating for those often unheard in our national conversations.”
The President commended Ghanaian journalists for their “brave efforts” in upholding the ideals of transparency, justice, and truth.
He noted that through their vigilance, issues that might have remained hidden have been brought to light, reminding public officials that “public office is a trust, not a privilege.”
Mahama acknowledged with concern Ghana’s recent decline on the World Press Freedom Index, saying the country’s record, once a beacon of media independence in Africa, had deteriorated.
“The 2025 Press Freedom Index, reflecting conditions in 2024, recorded another unfortunate decline, signalling that our recovery remains fragile,” he said.
He, however, assured journalists that his administration had chosen to “consciously reclaim Ghana’s place as Africa’s torchbearer of media freedom,” pledging to restore the spirit of openness and journalistic safety that characterized the pre-2017 era.
The President also addressed concerns raised by the GJA regarding acts of violence during the 2020 and 2024 elections, which led to the deaths and injuries of some journalists and citizens.
He announced that investigations into the incidents had been completed.
“A total of 21 individuals have been identified,” Mahama revealed. “Four have been arrested and released on bail, others remain on remand, and warrants have been issued for the remaining suspects.
The Attorney General is currently reviewing the report to determine the appropriate legal action and compensation for victims and their families.”
He assured the gathering that “justice will be pursued under the law,” emphasizing that victims deserve closure and perpetrators will face the consequences of their actions.
President Mahama concluded by reiterating the constitutional importance of the media, noting that the framers of the 1992 Constitution dedicated an entire chapter to the freedom and independence of the press.
“The media is not just a bystander in national life,” he said. “It is an institution of faith, constitutionally protected, whose vitality shapes the quality of our democracy.”
Source :www.kumasimail.com
