Renowned Ghanaian businessman and Executive Chairman of Jonah Capital Equity Fund, Sir Sam Jonah, has expressed deep concern over the lack of accountability in protecting the public purse, describing it as “pathetic”.
Addressing attendees at the launch of the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast highlighted the concerning trend of using state agencies against opponents and the encroachment on press freedom.
Sam Jonah urged Ghanaian journalists to be courageous and resolute in defending the country’s democracy by addressing critical issues affecting its governance system.
He emphasized the significant role media professionals play in Ghana as purveyors of objectivity, champions of informed dialogue, and unwavering defenders of freedom and truth.
“In this challenging era for our democracy and society, let us renew our commitment to the principles advocated by Ephraim Amu. I urge you to uphold objectivity, facilitate informed discussions, and staunchly defend freedom and truth. We must all be alarmed by the troubling developments in our national discourse.
“The apparent misuse of state agencies against opponents, the gradual erosion of press freedom, the perceived lack of confidence in the justice system, and the disappointing absence of accountability in safeguarding the public purse, demand that patriots speak up. Now is the time to be bold and fearless. We cannot compromise on protecting the national interest.
“The success of our democratic aspirations hinges greatly on a free press. As American journalist Walter Cronkite once said, ‘freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy!'”
The respected Ghanaian businessman also urged Ghanaian journalists to be impartial as the 2024 elections approach. He emphasized the importance of promoting a narrative of peace, fairness, and democracy through their reporting.
“As we near the upcoming elections, let your words and pens promote a message of peace, fairness, and democracy. The unfortunate incidents in our recent history, such as the situation in SALL, the tragic loss of lives in Techiman, and the unprecedented electoral violence in Ayawaso, should serve as reminders of our collective duty.
“We must all commit to ensuring that such dark chapters in our past are not repeated. Journalists should strive to be the bridge over troubled waters, offering every Ghanaian, regardless of political affiliation, solace and strength through the truth.”
