Accra: Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, the Deputy Chief of Staff (Administration), has reaffirmed the Government's commitment to sustaining and deepening press freedom in the country. Speaking at the 2nd Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day Honours Night in Accra, she emphasized the government's dedication to respecting and adhering to human rights principles as journalists carry out their constitutional duties.
According to Ghana News Agency, Bampoe Addo urged journalists to remain committed to professional and patriotic principles, especially in the current era of disinformation and misinformation. She commended the GJA for its efforts in advocating for press freedom in Ghana and highlighted the critical role of an ethical and independent press in combating the chaos caused by unverified information.
This year's World Press Freedom Day focused on the theme: 'Shaping A Future At Peace, Promoting Press Freedom For Human Rights, Development And Security.' Bampoe Addo praised Ghana's improvement on the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, moving from 52nd to 39th position, and expressed the government's intention to sustain and deepen this progress. She also addressed threats and physical attacks on journalists, emphasizing that such actions should not be tolerated in a democratic society.
The event also featured remarks from Professor Akua Opokua Britwum, Chairperson of the National Media Commission, who called for a review of the working conditions and financing models of media institutions to ensure adherence to professionalism. Mr. Kwabena Dwumfour, GJA President, highlighted the essential role of the media in promoting democracy and urged against recklessness and unprofessionalism among practitioners.
Dwumfour expressed concerns over sections of the Electronic Communication Act (2008) and the Criminal and Order Offences Act (1968), advocating for the review of repressive provisions in these legislations. He emphasized the importance of better working conditions, stronger legal protection, and media independence, asserting that a robust media is crucial for democracy.
The Ghana News Agency was among the institutions and individuals honored for their significant impact on the country's media landscape.