By Frank Kwame Abbor, GNA
Ho, May 6, GNA – Mr James Gunu, Volta Regional Minister, has reaffirmed government’s commitment to protecting press freedom, describing it as a critical foundation for peace, accountability, and national development.
He gave the assurance, in an address read on his behalf as the Guest of Honour at the 2026 World Press Freedom Day commemoration organised by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Ho.
Mr Gunu noted that the annual observance was not merely ceremonial but a moment to renew commitment to safeguarding media freedom and reflecting on whether journalists could operate without fear or favour.
“Without a free press, there can be no accountability. Without accountability, there is no trust. Without trust, there is no lasting peace,” he stated.
“That is why press freedom is peace infrastructure.”
He said the administration of His Excellency John Dramani Mahama regarded journalists as partners in nation-building rather than opponents, adding that steps were being taken to deepen media freedom in the country.
Mr Gunu cited the planned reintroduction of a Media Development Fund to support professionalism, safety, and sustainability within the media space, explaining that measures were being put in place to insulate the fund from political interference.
He also disclosed that the government was reviewing Chapter 12 of the Constitution to create a more enabling environment for press freedom and strengthen the role of the National Media Commission.
The Minister, however, urged journalists to exercise their freedom responsibly by prioritising accuracy, avoiding hate speech, and giving voice to marginalised groups.
“Speed is good, but accuracy is sacred,” he said.
“Peace in the Volta Region is real, but fragile, and must not be undermined by irresponsible reportage.”
He assured media practitioners that state institutions would not be used to intimidate them and encouraged any journalist facing harassment to report directly to his office for prompt action.
“Our commitment is clear: Ghana must become a model where press freedom is not only guaranteed by law but lived in practice,” he said.
In a keynote address, Dr David Esinu Yao Normanyo, Volta Regional Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council, emphasised the role of “peace journalism” in promoting development and stability.
He said journalists contributed to conflict prevention by adopting responsible language and focusing on solutions rather than tensions.
“By choosing words that de-escalate tensions; journalists protect the socio-economic stability required for investment and growth,” he noted.
Dr Normanyo cited findings from the 2025 Global Peace Index, which ranked Ghana among the most peaceful countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, but cautioned against complacency, noting that peace must be sustained at the local level.
He proposed the development of a Ghana Peace Index to track peace indicators across regions and districts and guide targeted interventions.
Dr Harrison Belley, Chairman of the GJA in the Volta and Oti Regions, said the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace” underscored the importance of a free, independent, and pluralistic media in sustaining democratic governance.
He commended journalists for their role in promoting accountability but noted that challenges such as harassment, economic pressures, and attempts to influence editorial independence persisted.
“A free and independent media is a foundation for peace because it builds trust between citizens and institutions,” he said.
Other speakers, including Dr Peter Agbodza, Mr Kenneth Kponoor, and Mr Divine Bosson, called for responsible journalism, fact-checking, and collaboration to strengthen Ghana’s democratic development.
They emphasised that while press freedom was essential, it must be exercised with responsibility to maintain public trust and national cohesion.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/Linda Asante Agyei