The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, has urged Ghanaian journalists to play a vital role in protecting the country’s democracy by fearlessly addressing critical issues affecting its governance system.
Speaking at the launch of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, Sir Sam Jonah emphasized the importance of media professionals serving as beacons of objectivity, promoters of informed discussions, and unwavering advocates of freedom and truth. He expressed concerns about concerning trends in the national dialogue and called for a renewed commitment to the principles championed by Ephraim Amu, especially in a time when democratic values and social cohesion are facing significant tests.
Sir Sam Jonah encouraged media practitioners to use their platforms to tackle pressing issues such as the perceived politicization of state agencies against dissenters, encroachments on press freedom, public skepticism regarding the impartiality of the judiciary, and the worrying lack of accountability in public finance management.
He called on journalists to be fearless and courageous in defending the national interest and emphasized the crucial role that a free press plays in the success of a democratic order. Sir Sam Jonah quoted respected American journalist Walter Cronkite, stating that “freedom of the press is not just important to democracy, it is democracy.”
The theme for the 75th anniversary celebration is “75 Years of Excellence in Journalism: Past, Present, and Future.” Sir Sam Jonah’s impassioned call to action serves as a reminder of the critical role that journalists play in shaping the narrative and upholding democratic values in Ghana.
