Jean Mensa, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, has challenged journalists to recognise the vital role they will play in the approaching 2024 elections.
She feels that journalists should be responsible in carrying out their duties during an election year.
This, she added, will protect the nation’s democracy and national security.
She made the statements while delivering the keynote address at the 27th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards.
The event was on the theme: “Leveraging Media Freedom to Sustain the Democratic and Security Architecture: The Litmus Test of Election 2024.”
“The exercise of your power and freedom in the lead-up to the 2024 election could potentially make or break our nation’s cohesion. This is a sobering truth.
“Therefore, your commitment to ensuring the peace and security of our country as we go to the polls in December 2024, should go beyond mere rhetoric to practising responsible journalism,” she said on Sunday.
She further posited that the 2024 election is a crucial one because “the 2024 elections will be more than a democratic exercise, it will be a test of our nation’s resilience.”
She noted that journalists have the ability to reach citizens’ ears, eyes, and hearts and are within walking distance of millions of homes across the country.
As a result, journalists must be aware of the delicate balance required between media freedom, democracy, and national security.
“You’re the beacon of truth, you’re the guidance of transparency, and you’re the vanguards of freedom and catalyst for informing and shaping public debate. With your role and the nation’s support and protection comes great responsibility.
Erastus Asare Donkor of Joy News, Joy FM and Luv FM, won the Journalist of the Year award.
He was declared the winner based on his works on the effects of illegal mining.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
