Elections 2024: We’ll not defend unprofessional conduct – GJA warns journalists

Ahead of the 2024 elections, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has cautioned media professionals from acting impolitely.

Speaking on Thursday at the launch of the GJA/US Embassy Ghana Election 2024 project named “Journalists for Peaceful Discourse,” GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour declared that the organization will not stand up for or defend any member of the media who engages in actions that threaten or incite violence against voters.

The media was judged to have encouraged violence during the 2020 elections, according to an association monitoring report, which prompted the GJA’s warning.

Mr. Dwumfour went on to say that having the right to free speech does not give someone license to talk carelessly.

He called on journalists to report responsibly and refrain from doing anything that might encourage violence or sabotage the democratic process.

“Freedom of expression does not only mean allowing people to speak but also ensuring responsibility. Findings of a GJA/MNC media monitoring during the December 7 elections revealed that incitement on media platforms topped types of violence perpetuated during the election.

“This is the reason I keep admonishing media practitioners and institutions to be very professional in the discharge of their duties. I want to reiterate that the GJA does not and will not condone unprofessional conduct. We will not shield or provide cover for defiance of professionalism.”