By Emmanuel Gamson
Takoradi, May 7, GNA – Mr Philip Fiifi Buckman, Member of Parliament (MP) for Kwesimintsim in the Western Region, has advised the public to desist from attacking journalists during the discharge of their constitutional mandate, describing such acts as unacceptable.
Mr Buckman, who is also a Board Member of the National Media Commission (NMC), gave the advice when he joined the Western Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to mark this year’s World Press Freedom Day.
The celebration was held on the theme: “Press Freedom: A Foundation for Democracy, Justice and Accountability.”
He noted that press freedom was a critical pillar in national development and urged Ghanaians to put an end to the increasing incidents of assaults and unwarranted attacks on media practitioners in the line of duty.
Mr Buckman also encouraged journalists to use their platforms to promote a positive national agenda, stressing that the media remained a powerful force for strengthening democracy, accountability, and social cohesion.
“Constructive communication, rather than destructive rhetoric, is vital for advancing a positive national agenda. So as journalists, you must use your platforms responsibly to help advance the nation’s development agenda,” he added.
Mr Desmond Cudjoe, Western Regional Chairman of the GJA, said press freedom came with responsibility and urged journalists to uphold the professional code of ethics guiding the practice of journalism.
He also appealed to media owners to recognise journalists as valuable assets and provide them with adequate financial and logistical support to enable them to perform their duties effectively.
GNA
Edited by Justina Hilda Paaga/Lydia Kukua Asamoah
Reporter: Emmanuel Gamson
Email: [email protected]