Speaker Bagbin Dedicates GJA Award to Parliament, Reaffirms Support for Media

By Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA 

Accra, Nov. 10, GNA – Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has dedicated the Special Award conferred on him at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards to the leadership, management and staff of the Parliamentary Service for their unwavering support throughout his parliamentary career. 

Mr Bagbin, in an official communication on tbe floor of tbe House on Tuesday, said the recognition reflected the collective efforts of the Parliamentary Service, which had enabled him to serve effectively during his more than three decades in Parliament as a Member of Parliament and Speaker of the House. 

The Speaker received the Special Award in recognition of his longstanding contribution to democratic governance, parliamentary development and support for media freedom in Ghana. 

The 30th GJA Media Awards was held on Saturday, November 7, 2026 at La Palm Royal Beach Hotel where more than 50 journalists, prominent personalities and media institutions were recognised for their outstanding journalistic work and contributions to the country’s democratic development. 

Mr Bagbin noted that although he had received numerous national and international honours over the years, the recognition from the GJA held special significance for him.  

He described journalists as critical partners in Ghana’s democratic journey and commended the media for their role in promoting transparency, accountability and good governance. 

Mr Bagbin reaffirmed Parliament’s readiness to collaborate with the GJA in sponsoring a Private Member’s Bill aimed at improving the conditions of service of media practitioners in the country.  

He assured journalists that under his leadership Parliament would not enact laws intended to suppress media freedom. 

“I will prefer a media that tells the naked truth rather than sweep the dirt under the carpet,” he said. 

The Speaker also endorsed President John Mahama’s announcement of a GH¢10 million seed fund to revive the Media Development Fund in the 2027 Budget, describing the initiative as a significant intervention to strengthen media development and professionalism. 

Mr Bagbin further pledged Parliament’s commitment to improving internet connectivity at the Parliamentary Press Corps’ press room and enhancing the logistical and working conditions of journalists covering the Legislature.  

He acknowledged the vital role played by the Parliamentary Press Corps in projecting the work of Parliament to the public and pledged continuous support for its activities. 

“The Parliamentary Press Corps shines light on the work of Parliament and makes its activities visible to the people of Ghana. We will continue to support them to effectively discharge that responsibility,” he said. 

GNA 

Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade 

Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah 
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