US Embassy Lauds GJA Leadership For Its Bold Decision In Defending Press Freedom

The US Embassy in Accra has lauded the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) for defending press freedom in the country.

It would be recalled the GJA on separate events imposed a media blackout sanctions on Hawa Koomson and Farouk Aliu Mahama, MPs for Awutu Senya and Yendi respectively.

The Press Attache at the US Embassy, Mr. Kevin Brosnahan who was speaking at GJA/US Embassy Workshop on “PeacefUK Journalistic Discourse” in Kumasi on Friday, February 10, 2024, stressed that the decision by GJA smacks of bold leadership and a defence of press freedom in Ghana.

“There has been a high profile attacks on Journalists as part of election process and I was proud see GJA calling for accountability for those Journalists attacked

This is a great example of democratic institutions like GJA protecting its democratic process so I thank you GJA and GJA President”,the Press Attache at the US Embassy emphasized.

He expressed worry over attacks on Journalists stressing that it doesnt augur well for Ghana’s long history of good and civil democratic credentials in the sub-region.

“Who else than Journalists can ask the tough questions and get the answers?

Who else can help the public analyses tough public policy issues . Who else can give the Candidayes forum to Commemorate freely yet challenge them if they over promise?”, Mr. Brosnahan quizzed.

He said Journalists play a key role in protecting Ghana’s democratic institutions maintaining that Journalism remains one of the democratic institutions the US cherishes after free and fair elections.

He therefore called for an urgent steps to protect democratic institutions that protects human rights in the country.

Mr. Brosnahan explained that it is the reason the US Embassy partnered the GJA for this nationwide “Peaceful Journalistic Discourse” initiative.

On his part the GJA President, Mr. Albert Dwumfour commended the US Embassy for always supporting the GJA on initiatives like this.

He said such initiatives builds the capacity of the media comprehend deeply the electoral process and hold politicians accountable.

“This project is laudable for many reasons. It places great emphasis on training, information sharing, and the encouragement of self-initiated media projects. It provides our journalists with a unique opportunity to delve deep into the heart of the electoral process, to subject candidates and policies to rigorous scrutiny, and to enlighten the public with reliable, unbiased information.

Through these commendable efforts, our journalists become the bridge between the corridors of power and the citizens they serve, empowering them to make informed choices at the ballot box, thereby ensuring the legitimacy and credibility of our elections”, the GJA President emphasized

He charged the beneficiaries to take advantage of the Worshop due to its inherent benefits to them.

Source:amaghanaonline