GJA holds second 75th anniversary lecture in Ho

Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) as part of activities to mark their 75th anniversary celebration, held the 2nd public lecture series at Ho in the Volta Region.

The Programme under the theme: “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism; Shaping the Future is aimed at educating the public on the work of journalists, challenges and the future prospects.”

Speaking at the function, a Communications Lecturer at the University of Ghana (UG) and Media Freedom Advocate, Prof. Kwame Karikari expressed concern about hostilities against journalists in recent times in the country, which he described as unfortunate.

Prof. Karikari observed that journalist have been arrested and detained in the past, but the situation currently is becoming beyond description, particularly under the 4th Republican constitution under the leadership of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo. “A journalist was killed, and the killers are yet to be found,” he wondered.

The Communication lecturer said it is becoming clear that there is a growing aggression against journalists and media practitioners which if nothing is done to nip such negative acts in the bud, would affect the growth of media practice and freedom of expression in the country.

According to Prof. Karikari, journalists who commit mistakes in the discharge of their duties, the constitution has made provisions for redress on such developments, but unfortunately people rather decided to attack and kill journalists which is unfortunate.

Professor Karikari also bemoaned the situation where some traditional authorities take the laws into their hands to close down radio and television stations. He said that should not only be regarded as a threat to media freedom, but also a demonstration of total disregard for the rule of law.

He, however, urged journalists to abide by the code of ethics of the profession, which include accuracy, truth and fact-checking in order to stand tall and gain public confidence, noting that these elements are relevant in ensuring brighter future for journalism industry in the country.

A Media Consultant, Dr Akorfa Segbefia lauded the traditional media for excellence during the past 75 years in spite of the challenges faced in the discharge of their duties, saying the traditional media needed to strategise with the coming of social media and artificial intelligence in order to stand the test of time.

He also expressed concern about continuous establishment of media outlets by politicians and setting agenda for journalists working for them, explaining that such journalists are likely to work under conditions that would make them undermine the professional ethics, which would ultimately not promote good journalism practice in the country.

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Mr Kwabena Dwumfour said journalists risked their lives in the performance of their duties over the years, but they continued to deliver on their mandate.

He therefore called on the government to cooperate with the Association to ensure safety of journalists in the country, adding that it is unfortunate that since Ahmed  Suale was murdered, his killers have still not been found, thereby making the practice of journalism in the country not attractive.

The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa expressed satisfaction about the cordial working relationship he had with journalists in the region and asked the media to uphold truth and adopt innovative way of reporting to empower future generations.

The Programme, which was chaired by a retired Broadcast Journalist from the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) and a pastor of the Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) Church, Rev. Ruby Amable was attended by not only Journalists but the military, police, students, civil society groups and heads of department among others

Story by Robert Abilba

 

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