By Godwill Arthur-Mensah, GNA
Accra, Nov. 10, GNA – Speaker of Parliament, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has reaffirm his commitment to media freedom, saying, he would rather have a media that exposes societal challenges than one that conceals them.
“I will prefer a media that tells the naked truth rather than sweep the dirt under the carpet,” Mr Bagbin said in an official communication on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday.
The Speaker assured journalists that Parliament, under his leadership, would not enact laws intended to suppress media freedoms, describing the media as a critical partner in Ghana’s democratic journey.
He commended journalists for their contributions to transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Mr Bagbin also reiterated Parliament’s readiness to collaborate with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in sponsoring a Private Member’s Bill aimed at improving the conditions of service of media practitioners across the country.
He 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 in Ghana.
The Speaker made the remarks when expressing appreciation for a Special Award conferred on him at the 30th GJA Media Awards.
He dedicated the honour to the leadership, management, and staff of the Parliamentary Service, whom he credited for their unwavering support throughout his parliamentary career.
Mr Bagbin said the recognition reflected the collective efforts of the Parliamentary Service, which had enabled him to serve effectively for more than three decades in Parliament, first as a Member of Parliament and now as Speaker of the House.
The Special Award recognised his longstanding contributions to democratic governance, parliamentary development and support for media freedom in Ghana.
The 30th GJA Media Awards, held on November 7, at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra, honoured more than 50 journalists, distinguished personalities and media institutions for outstanding journalistic work and contributions to Ghana’s democratic development.
Mr Bagbin noted that although he had received several national and international honours over the years, the recognition from the GJA held particular significance for him.
He also 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.
Acknowledging the crucial role of the Parliamentary Press Corps in keeping citizens informed about parliamentary business, the Speaker assured members of the Corps of continuous institutional support.
“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 Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Godwill Arthur-Mensah
Email: [email protected]