Keypoints:
- Mahama vows to restore media freedoms
- Election violence victims may get compensation
- Media Development Fund to be revived
PRESIDENT John Dramani Mahama has pledged to restore Ghana’s standing as a beacon of media freedom in Africa, admitting the country’s global rankings have slipped in recent years due to harassment of journalists and violent attacks.
Speaking at an engagement with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mahama said his government would work with the media to reclaim Ghana’s leadership in press freedom across the continent.
‘We have seen a consistent decline in our ranking in international indices, and that is an issue of concern,’ he said. He cited the harassment of journalists and the 2019 murder of investigative reporter Ahmed Suale as damaging incidents.
Mahama stressed the need for security agencies to change their approach to media professionals. ‘Journalists are not enemies. They are reporting something that is happening and must be given the freedom to do their work,’ he said. He called for a new forum between security agencies and the GJA to stop the harassment of reporters at public events.
Election violence under review
Mahama disclosed that he had received the investigative report into violence during the 2020 and 2024 polls. The report detailed victims of political clashes, including journalists.
‘We have handed it over to the Attorney-General. If prosecutions are necessary, they will proceed. We have also asked for proposals on adequate compensation for victims, including journalists,’ he said. Families of those killed and survivors living with injuries are expected to be considered for compensation.
Media Fund to return
Mahama also announced plans to revive the long-dormant Media Development Fund, which collapsed after disputes over its management. The fund will be reactivated in the government’s next budget and jointly overseen by the Ministry of Communications and the GJA.
‘We are all more mature now. A new transparent mechanism will ensure journalists can benefit directly from the fund,’ Mahama said.
State media must adapt
The president acknowledged that Ghana’s state-owned media are struggling in a digital landscape dominated by bloggers and short videos. While urging innovation and adoption of online subscription models, he rejected calls for full privatisation.
‘Public broadcasting is not always commercial. Who will do adult education in Dagbani if GBC were not there?’ he asked. Mahama urged state media to improve programming with stronger visuals and more engaging formats to retain audiences.
Press centre land dispute
Mahama expressed surprise that the GJA still lacked a title deed for its press centre land, donated more than 20 years ago. He pledged to work with the Lands Commission to secure ownership and said government and corporate institutions would help develop a modern press centre.
Restoring Ghana’s reputation
Closing his address, Mahama committed to reversing Ghana’s downward slide in international press freedom rankings.
‘We will work together with you to ensure Ghana resumes its pride of place as the beacon of media freedom, not only in West Africa but in the whole of Africa,’ he said.
His remarks, reported by local media, come as watchdogs such as Reporters Without Borders have warned of a steady decline in Ghana’s press freedom since the mid-2010s.
