The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, has reaffirmed the Mahama administration’s unwavering commitment to press freedom, describing a free and independent media as a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy.
Delivering a speech on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the World Press Freedom Day Commemoration and Honours Night organized by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, the Minister said the government remains firmly dedicated to protecting freedom of expression and ensuring that journalists operate without intimidation.
Addressing journalists, diplomats, government officials, development partners and veteran media practitioners, Mr. George conveyed President Mahama’s warm greetings and emphasized the President’s long-standing belief that a vibrant press is essential for democratic governance and national development.
Speaking on the theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security,” the Minister noted that the media plays a critical role in advancing peace, accountability and inclusive development, especially in an era shaped by rapid technological change and the digital revolution.
He stressed that a free press is not a privilege but a fundamental pillar of democracy, human rights and sustainable development.
According to him, President Mahama has consistently demonstrated tolerance for criticism and media scrutiny throughout his political career, choosing dialogue and accountability over intimidation.
“A government that fears scrutiny is a government that has reason to hide. We are not such a government,” he stated.
Mr. George highlighted Ghana’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading examples of media freedom, noting that no journalist has been killed, forced into exile, or had a media house shut down by the state under President Mahama’s leadership.
The Minister also praised Ghana’s significant progress in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, where the country climbed to 39th position out of 180 countries, improving from 52nd place in the previous year and 62nd in 2023.
He attributed the achievement to the collective efforts of journalists, editors, media owners, civil society organizations and successive governments that have embraced democratic principles.
“Ghana’s rise in the global rankings is proof that media freedom and democratic governance can coexist and thrive,” he said.
On digital transformation, Mr. George underscored the growing link between press freedom and digital access, describing the internet as “today’s printing press.”
He explained that government investments in broadband infrastructure and digital literacy are not only economic interventions but also democratic initiatives aimed at ensuring citizens have access to credible information.
While reaffirming the government’s support for media freedom, the Minister cautioned against the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms.
He warned that false information can undermine public trust, threaten national security, fuel communal tensions and damage democratic institutions.
“Not everything published or broadcast today is journalism. Some content is deliberately designed to inflame rather than inform,” he observed.
Mr. George emphasized that press freedom must be exercised responsibly and that legal and regulatory frameworks exist to protect the public interest rather than suppress free expression.
He called on the Ghana Journalists Association and media institutions to strengthen fact-checking mechanisms, uphold professional ethics and invest in the training of young journalists.
The Minister further highlighted the need to improve the welfare and working conditions of journalists, noting that economic insecurity can make media practitioners vulnerable to political and commercial influence.
He assured the media fraternity that government remains committed to supporting policies that promote a sustainable and independent media ecosystem.
Paying tribute to veteran journalists honoured during the event, Mr. George commended their immense contributions to Ghana’s democratic development and national history.
He noted that despite challenges such as low remuneration, inadequate resources and political pressure, many of them remained steadfast in their commitment to informing the public and defending the truth.
Concluding his address, the Minister urged all stakeholders to work together to protect media freedom while promoting responsible journalism.
He stressed that peace, justice and development depend on truthful reporting and an informed citizenry.
“Let our media freedom be a beacon that guides our development, strengthens our human rights, and secures our national future,” he said.
The World Press Freedom Day Commemoration and Honours Night brought together key stakeholders from the media, government, diplomatic community and civil society to celebrate press freedom and honour distinguished journalists for their service to Ghana.
