President John Dramani Mahama has pledged that his government will not tolerate any attacks or intimidation against journalists, promising to restore Ghana’s position as a beacon of press freedom in Africa.
Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, the President said journalists must be able to work without fear. “Under my leadership, this government will neither sanction nor tolerate any form of intimidation, interference, or attacks on journalists,” he declared to applause from the packed audience of media professionals, traditional leaders, and dignitaries.
He described Ghana’s recent drop in global press freedom rankings as a serious concern and vowed to rebuild confidence in the country’s democratic institutions. “In 2016 and 2017, we stood tall as a beacon of media independence. Our journalists worked without fear, and public debate thrived. In recent years, that promise has faded. We must bring it back,” he said.
President Mahama announced that his government will establish a permanent forum between the media and national security agencies to address tensions and ensure that journalists are protected while covering sensitive stories. He also said new safeguards would be developed to guarantee safe access to public information, protect whistleblowers, and ensure swift investigations into attacks on media workers.
“The media are not enemies of the state. They are partners in nation-building,” he said. “A free press gives strength to our democracy and helps citizens hold leaders accountable.”
Addressing this year’s awards theme, “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security, and the Fight Against Galamsey,” the President called for collaboration between the media and government to combat environmental degradation and misinformation. He warned that the twin threats of illegal mining and fake news could undermine national stability if left unchecked.
President Mahama also urged journalists to maintain professionalism and ethical standards even as they pursue stories that expose wrongdoing. “We must ensure that the media reinforces democracy, not erodes it,” he said. “With freedom comes responsibility.”
He commended the GJA for its role in upholding professional standards and congratulated all award winners, especially young journalists. “Your work matters,” he told them. “It builds trust, exposes injustice, and gives voice to the voiceless. Keep striving for excellence.”
The event, held under the patronage of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, brought together some of the country’s leading journalists, editors, and media executives. It celebrated outstanding work across print, radio, television, and digital media, reaffirming the media’s central role in Ghana’s democratic life.
