By: Love Wilhelmina Abanonave
The President-Elect of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has firmly denied allegations of politicization within the Association, reaffirming his commitment to impartiality and to holding power to account.
Mr. Dwumfour emphasized that under his leadership, the GJA has consistently taken a principled stand against injustices and violations of press freedom, regardless of which political party is in government. He reiterated the association’s dedication to defending the rights of journalists and upholding the core values of objectivity and accountability..
‘’You cannot align my name with any political party in this country because I have stood the test of time’’, he said.
Speaking on GTV, Mr. Dwumfour cited his direct confrontation with former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo over the government’s handling of the galamsey crisis as evidence of his objectivity. He recounted telling the former president that the government’s response to protesters was unacceptable and urged him to take decisive action to address the issue.
‘’I even stood firm before former President Akufo-Addo during galamsey time and told him he has failed to redeem himself. I told him he had to stop galamsey because he said he would put his Presidency on the line to stop the menace.
This stance, he believes, demonstrates the GJA’s commitment to being a watchdog for the people, rather than aligning with any particular political party.
He also highlighted ongoing concerns under the current government, led by President John Dramani Mahama. Mr. Dwumfour reported that within a span of less than 50 days, seven attacks on journalists had been recorded, six of which occurred in the first week of February alone. He noted that the GJA has been outspoken on the issue and has called on President Mahama to prioritise journalist safety.
“We told President Mahama that he, more than anyone, should understand the plight and challenges journalists face,” Mr. Dwumfour said.
The President Elect of the GJA assured that despite the challenges and criticisms, the GJA remains united in its mission to promote press freedom and journalistic integrity adding that there are no divisions within the Association.
He indicated that the Association’s stance is not driven by political bias but by a commitment to truth and accountability, regardless of who holds power.
