President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has criticised what he described as a “Rambo-style” approach to ministerial leadership and regulatory enforcement, warning that such practices are inconsistent with Ghana’s democratic culture.

Speaking at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Mr Dwumfour said government officials and regulators must exercise their authority with fairness, professionalism and respect for democratic principles.

He stressed that although regulatory institutions have a responsibility to enforce the law, their actions should not intimidate journalists or unnecessarily threaten the survival of media organisations.

The GJA President maintained that strong leadership should be demonstrated through dialogue, accountability and respect for the rule of law rather than forceful approaches.

Press freedom must go beyond international rankings

Mr Dwumfour also called on stakeholders to look beyond Ghana’s position in international press freedom rankings when assessing the state of media freedom in the country.

He said the true measure of press freedom should be whether journalists can investigate corruption, question public officials, report on security operations and hold powerful institutions accountable without intimidation or fear.

He cautioned that an improved position on the World Press Freedom Index should not lead to complacency while journalists continue to face threats, attacks and harassment.

Ghana moved from 52nd position in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index to 39th in the 2026 edition, according to figures cited by the GJA President.

However, he insisted that the progress must be supported by practical measures that protect media practitioners and strengthen their independence.

GJA records more than 50 incidents involving journalists

Mr Dwumfour disclosed that the Association had recorded more than 50 incidents involving attacks, arrests, threats and harassment of journalists between 2022 and January 2026.

He said the incidents highlighted the risks media practitioners continue to face while carrying out their professional responsibilities.

The GJA President called for transparent investigations into reported attacks and the prosecution of individuals found responsible.

He also urged security institutions to recognise journalists as partners in national development rather than enemies of the state.

Regulatory enforcement must protect media workers

The GJA President acknowledged the need for media organisations to comply with regulatory requirements but warned against enforcement measures that could place the livelihoods of journalists and other media workers at risk.

His comments come amid disagreements over regulatory action against radio stations and public remarks about shutting down media organisations.

He argued that where a media organisation breaches regulatory requirements, authorities should adopt fair and proportionate measures that consider the consequences for workers.

He maintained that the welfare of journalists, media independence and professional development must remain central to efforts to strengthen Ghana’s media landscape.

Call for better conditions for journalists

Mr Dwumfour further raised concerns about poor remuneration, insecure employment arrangements, irregular salaries and limited opportunities for professional development in the media industry.

He said journalists who struggle financially may become vulnerable to undue influence and professional compromise.

He therefore called for improved working conditions and stronger institutional support to protect the independence and integrity of media practitioners.

The 30th GJA Media Awards brought together journalists, media organisations, government representatives and other stakeholders to celebrate excellence in journalism and reflect on the future of press freedom in Ghana.

The ceremony was held under the theme: “30th GJA Media Awards: Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age.”

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