GJA President in alleged Coercion and Abuse of Power Scandal

A petition by Youth for Media Freedom (YMF), a pressure group advocating for ethical governance and transparent media practices in Ghana, has demanded the immediate removal of Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA). The petition alleges that Mr. Dwumfour is implicated in serious acts of coercion and abuse of power, undermining the Ghanaian media landscape

According to credible sources, Mr. Dwumfour has used his influence to threaten high-ranking businessmen, government officials, and appointees, wielding sensitive information to coerce them into submission. These officials have expressed deep apprehension over potential damage to their reputations and businesses.

The GJA’s role is to safeguard press freedom, foster ethical journalism, and hold members to high integrity standards. However, Mr. Dwumfour’s alleged actions, if substantiated, represent a flagrant abuse of his office and a betrayal of the trust bestowed upon him.

Previous Governance Issues

This is not the first time Mr. Dwumfour’s leadership has been called into question. In May 2024, the Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) threatened to strike the GJA from the national register of companies for failing to submit annual accounts and update membership certificates. This incident reveals a significant deficiency in accountability and organizational governance under Mr. Dwumfour’s leadership.

Calls for Investigation and Reform

Youth for Media Freedom demands Mr. Dwumfour’s immediate suspension pending a thorough, impartial investigation. The group calls for an independent committee to investigate the allegations, with adequate resources and authority to summon witnesses and review evidence. If found guilty, Mr. Dwumfour should be held accountable, with actions taken to preserve the GJA’s integrity.

The petition also urges the government to collaborate with the GJA and stakeholders to introduce reforms preventing future abuse of media power. With the 2024 general elections approaching, a fair and independent media landscape is crucial to ensuring electoral transparency and public trust.

The Ghanaian public, government officials, and journalists deserve an association free from unethical practices. Will the GJA take decisive action to address these serious allegations and preserve its integrity? Only time will tell.

Source: The Metro Lens