The Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has assured journalists that the Mahama administration will continue to uphold and protect press freedom as a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy.
Speaking at the media launch of the 2025 Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards in Accra, Mr. Ofosu said the government remains committed to ensuring a safe and open space for journalists to operate without fear or intimidation.
“Let me assure you that government has no intent to curb your freedoms. But as you know, there is one person who supports the expression of his speech. He is exceptionally tolerant and is open to criticism,” he stated.
Mr. Ofosu noted that President John Dramani Mahama has consistently demonstrated respect for the media and continues to champion transparency and accountability in governance.
“He has the same responsibility as any leader anywhere to ensure that our social fabric is not compromised by the abuse of this unique platform,” he said, referring to the evolving influence of social media.
The Minister emphasized that the government remains open to collaboration and constructive engagement with journalists.
“We will not act in any way, shape or form that undermines press freedom, that hinders press freedom and that kills press freedom. We are open to dialogue. We are open to engagement with the media,” he stressed.
He also highlighted President Mahama’s ongoing engagement with media stakeholders, noting that the President had in recent months met with the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to discuss pressing industry concerns and later held a national media encounter to address issues of accountability and transparency.
“This is the mark of a leader who believes in transparency,” Mr. Ofosu said.
“He continues to urge you to hold his feet to the fire of accountability, subject him to scrutiny — even rigorous and harsh scrutiny — but please ensure that we do this within the boundaries of the law, so that collectively, we do not endanger our own security.”
The event also featured the inauguration of a nine-member awards committee to vet submissions for this year’s GJA Awards, which celebrate excellence in Ghanaian journalism.
The committee is chaired by Gabriel Bosompem, a former Commissioner of the National Media Commission and former Production Manager at TV3.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
