Rejoinder: A Reminder to Samuel Atta Akyea – Journalists Deserve Better Respect

Lawyer Samuel Atta Akyea, Member of Parliament for the Abuakwa South constituency, recently made remarks that have left many journalists across Ghana deeply disappointed and aggrieved. His statement that “Ghana needs an economist, not a journalist” in reference to the upcoming presidential elections is not only condescending but reflects a deeply flawed understanding of the critical role that journalists play in shaping our society.

As a seasoned journalist, I find it necessary to respond to Mr. Atta Akyea’s disparaging comments. It is disheartening that a man of his stature and experience would stoop so low as to undermine an entire profession that has, for decades, been at the forefront of defending democracy, exposing corruption, and amplifying the voices of the voiceless. Journalists are the bedrock of informed society; they are the ones who hold power to account and ensure transparency in governance. If Mr. Atta Akyea cannot see this, then one must question his grasp on the realities of our nation.

It is worth noting that Ghana’s current challenges cannot be pinned on journalists. On the contrary, it is the very lawyers and economists like Mr. Atta Akyea who have been at the helm of affairs for years, yet have failed to steer the country towards sustainable development. If his logic were to hold, one could argue that perhaps, it is precisely because of the overwhelming dominance of lawyers and economists in our political leadership that we find ourselves in the economic quagmire we are currently in. After all, it was not journalists who oversaw the economic decisions that led to our current situation.

Furthermore, Mr. Atta Akyea would do well to remember that leadership is not solely about technical expertise in one field. It is about vision, empathy, and the ability to connect with and inspire the populace. Journalists, with their unique insights into the needs and concerns of the people, are often better positioned to lead with the heart of the nation in mind.

Had Abuakwa South been represented by a journalist, the constituency would likely have witnessed a more profound development, driven by a leader deeply in tune with the needs of the people and committed to transparent, accountable governance. Mr. Atta Akyea’s dismissive attitude towards journalists suggests a narrow-mindedness that is unbecoming of someone in his position.

I think Mr. Atta Akyea should be ashamed of his loose comments. It is obvious that journalists in Ghana are deeply disappointed in his remarks, and we call on him to retract and apologize for his misguided statements. Ghana deserves leaders who appreciate and respect all professions that contribute to the nation’s progress, and it is high time Mr. Atta Akyea opened his mind to this reality.

Signed,
Jeorge Wilson Kingson

Editor and Journalists’ Rights Advocate