Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State in charge of Government Communication, has reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to free speech and press freedom while urging responsible use of digital platforms to safeguard national unity.
Speaking at the launch of the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Accra on Thursday, Mr Ofosu emphasised that while the Mahama administration fully supports freedom of expression, it also bears the responsibility to preserve social cohesion.
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“Government does not intend to curb freedoms. President Mahama strongly supports free speech, but he has a responsibility to ensure that our social fabric is not torn asunder,” he stated.
Addressing the growing influence of digital and social media, the minister cautioned against the spread of misinformation and disinformation online. He called for regulatory measures that protect the public interest without infringing on journalistic independence.
“The same levels of regulation that apply to traditional media must be brought to bear on new media. But we will not act in any way that undermines journalistic freedom,” he assured.
Mr Ofosu acknowledged that journalism is rapidly evolving due to social media and artificial intelligence, noting that digital content creators, though sometimes viewed as intrusive now an integral part of modern communication.
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“In the coming years, it is clear that many traditional media forms may no longer be viable. Social media will be the order of the day,” he said, urging the GJA to mentor, train, and integrate digital practitioners to enhance professionalism across the media landscape.
He also confirmed that government would be fully represented at the upcoming GJA Awards ceremony, scheduled for the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi under the royal patronage of His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Mr Ofosu commended the GJA for sustaining what he described as “the most sought-after awards scheme within the journalistic fraternity” for nearly three decades.
Mr Alex Apau Dadey, Executive Chairman of KGL Group, highlighted the crucial role of the media in driving public-private partnerships for national development. “Government alone cannot transform the country. A collaborative media landscape is crucial to shaping effective policies and fostering mutual respect between the public and private sectors,” he said, pledging KGL’s continued support for ethical journalism.
Turkish Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Huseyin Gungor, also spoke on the growing challenge of misinformation, stressing that while technology has made content creation easier, it has equally increased journalists’ responsibility to uphold integrity and truth. He commended the GJA for recognising journalistic excellence and saluted journalists’ resilience in serving the public interest.
Mr Prince Oheneba Nana Kwaku Duah, Managing Director of Ashanti Green Initiative, expressed pride in Kumasi hosting the event, describing it as a milestone for the city. He praised the media’s role in promoting sustainable practices, particularly in Ghana’s mining sector, and lauded journalists for their courage and objectivity.
GJA President, Mr Albert Dwumfour, outlined the activities for the “awards weekend,” including a welcome reception at the Lancaster Hotel on Friday, November 7, followed by a health walk on Saturday morning, November 8. The main awards ceremony will be held at 1600 hours at the Manhyia Palace, with a royal dinner reception hosted by the Asantehene at 1900 hours.
