Ghana marked World Press Freedom Day with a pledge to safeguard media freedom as a pillar of democracy and development in Accra last Saturday.
Delivering remarks on behalf of President Mahama, the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam Nartey George, said the President’s “unshakeable commitment to a free and independent press” remains central to governance.
“A free press is not a privilege. It is a pillar. It is foundational to governance, human rights, and to the sustainable development we aspire for Ghana and Africa,” the Minister said.
He revealed that Ghana has steadily risen in the World Press Freedom Index, where the country now ranks 39th out of 180 nations, up from 52nd last year and 62nd in 2023. He described this improvement as a testament to Ghana’s culture of openness and the resilience of its media institutions.
Mr. George stated that under this government, no journalist has been killed, forced into exile, or had their media house shut down for speaking the truth. Instead, the administration has welcomed scrutiny, viewing robust journalism as an instrument of accountability and development.
The Minister cautioned against misinformation and disinformation, noting that false reports can inflame tensions and undermine national security. He urged the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and media houses to strengthen fact-checking, uphold editorial standards, and invest in the professional development of young journalists.
Mr. George also paid tribute to veteran journalists who persevered through difficult conditions to build Ghana’s tradition of press freedom. Their sacrifices, he noted, laid the foundation for the country’s current standing as one of Africa’s most respected media environments.
The Minister called on journalists, government, and citizens alike to protect the integrity of Ghana’s democracy. “Peace is the presence of justice. Justice requires truth. Truth requires courageous journalists who will ask the difficult questions, challenge the convenient narratives, and stand firm in the face of pressure,” he concluded.
Margaret Adjeley Sowah, ISD
