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🇬🇭 Ghana /Elections & Politics

Free press key to democracy - Pres Mahama

From Ghanaian Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • President John Dramani Mahama reaffirmed his administration's commitment to media freedom, calling a free press essential for democracy and development.
  • Ghana improved its standing on the World Press Freedom Index to 39th place, reflecting its democratic credentials and commitment to media freedom.
  • The President cautioned against misinformation and urged journalists to uphold ethical standards and strengthen fact-checking.

President John Dramani Mahama has declared his government's unwavering commitment to protecting media freedom and freedom of expression. He emphasized that a free and independent press is a cornerstone of democracy, human rights, and sustainable development. Fearless and responsible journalism, he stated, is vital for promoting accountability, transparency, and good governance, urging governments to welcome scrutiny.

media freedom is not a privilege but a fundamental pillar of democratic governance and national development.

— President John Dramani MahamaIn a speech read on his behalf, President Mahama emphasized the importance of media freedom for democratic governance and national development.

Mahama's remarks were delivered in a speech read by the Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, at the Second World Press Freedom Day Commemoration and Honours Night in Accra. The event, organized by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), focused on "Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security." The President highlighted Ghana's progress on the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, noting the country's move to 39th out of 180 nations in 2026, an improvement from previous years.

While celebrating Ghana's democratic achievements, President Mahama also addressed the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms. He called on journalists and media organizations to maintain high ethical standards, enhance fact-checking mechanisms, and invest in continuous professional development to preserve the profession's credibility. The President also paid tribute to veteran journalists for their significant contributions to Ghana's democratic development and their role in safeguarding the public's right to information.

governments must welcome scrutiny rather than fear it.

— President John Dramani MahamaThe President stated that fearless and responsible journalism is vital for promoting accountability and transparency.

In his address, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour described journalism as a public service and commended media practitioners for their sacrifices. He praised President Mahama for supporting efforts to establish a Media Development Fund. However, Dwumfour also warned that press freedom faces ongoing threats, including strategic lawsuits, digital surveillance, online harassment, and economic pressures, cautioning against excessive litigation against journalists.

journalism is a public service

— Albert Kwabena DwumfourThe President of the Ghana Journalists Association described the role of journalism.
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Originally published by Ghanaian Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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