The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr. Albert Kwabena Dumfuor, has commended Parliament for recognising the vital role of the media in Ghana’s democratic process, urging legislators to protect press freedom.
He urged members of Parliament to resist laws that stifle free expression and underscored the need for them to facilitate a legislation that standardise remuneration package for journalists.
Speaking at the Parliament Media Soirée and Recognition Night, Mr. Dumfuor expressed gratitude to the Speaker, Parliamentary Leadership, and the Parliamentary Service for honouring the contribution of journalists to parliamentary work and national democracy.
He emphasised that Parliament remained central to governance, law-making and accountability, but noted that without the media, citizens would be unaware of how their representatives perform or how laws are enacted.
“The Parliamentary Press Corps serves as the bridge between Parliament and the people,” he said, adding that the recognition affirmed Parliament’s appreciation of transparency and public accountability.
Mr. Dumfuor acknowledged the demanding nature of reporting from Parliament and appealed for continuous institutional support for journalists covering the House.
He stressed that an enabling environment would strengthen democratic participation and public trust and encouraged journalists to remain professional, ethical and circumspect in their reportage.
He cautioned against coverage that deepened polarisation or inflamed partisan tensions, urging journalists to focus on factual, relevant issues in the national interest. “Journalism must inform, not divide,” he stated.
Reaffirming the GJA’s commitment to responsible and ethical journalism, Mr. Dumfuor pledged continued training and accountability to uphold standards nationwide.
He also reminded Parliament of its constitutional duty to protect freedom of expression and media freedom, expressing concern about aspects of electronic communications legislation and other laws that had been used against journalists.
He called for a review and reform of such laws.
The GJA President described the media as “the oxygen of democracy” which must be strengthened rather than strangled.
He thanked Parliament once again for the recognition and congratulated individuals honoured during the ceremony.
GNA
Christian Akorlie
Dec. 21, 2025
