The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfour, has publicly criticised the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, for misrepresenting the association's advocacy as a personal appeal to President John Dramani Mahama. Dwumfour made these remarks at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, responding to Sam George's comments on a media programme in Accra on 2 November 2026.
According to Dwumfour, Sam George suggested that the GJA had "run to" President Mahama after proposing to shut down politically and religiously affiliated media houses. The GJA President described these comments as unfortunate, particularly coming from a minister whose portfolio places him at the centre of the country's communications and media ecosystem.
The dispute between the GJA and Sam George traces back to his earlier declaration that he would close down politically and religiously affiliated media organisations if he had the power to do so. This position was restated last week, sparking concerns about the livelihoods of journalists at as many as 64 affected media organisations.
Dwumfour emphasised that the GJA's engagement with President Mahama was not driven by personal or party interests but by its constitutional obligation to protect journalists whenever their rights, welfare or livelihoods come under threat. He credited President Mahama with responding swiftly to the association's appeal, granting clemency within two hours of the GJA raising its concerns.
The exchange between the GJA and Sam George comes on the heels of Ghana's improved standing in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, where the country climbed to 39th out of 180 nations. However, Dwumfour warned that the better ranking does not erase ongoing threats facing journalists, including attacks on journalists by uniformed security personnel.
Sam George has also found himself at the centre of a separate public dispute this week over his handling of a military officer in Ningo-Prampram, adding to a string of controversies trailing the minister in recent days. The GJA has said it will continue to engage the presidency, ministers, Parliament, regulators and media owners whenever developments threaten the safety, welfare or professional independence of journalists.
The GJA's commitment to protecting journalists' rights and welfare remains steadfast, with Dwumfour reiterating the association's role in advocating for press freedom and safety. The association's efforts aim to ensure that journalists can work without fear of persecution or reprisal, and that the media can operate freely in Ghana.
Key points
- The GJA President, Albert Dwumfour, criticised Sam George for misrepresenting the association's advocacy as a personal appeal to President Mahama.
- The dispute between the GJA and Sam George centres on the proposed shutdown of politically and religiously affiliated media organisations.
- Ghana's improved standing in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index does not erase ongoing threats facing journalists.
