GJA President Warns Against Media Station Closures in Ghana

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has expressed concerns about the implications of closing media stations for regulatory breaches. He warned that such closures affect not only the organisations involved but also journalists and other media professionals whose livelihoods depend on their operations. Dwumfour made these remarks at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra.

Dwumfour's comments were in response to remarks made by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George. On November 2, 2026, the Minister stated that he would shut down politically and religiously affiliated media houses if he had the authority to do so. The GJA President emphasised that alleged regulatory breaches should not automatically result in media organisation closures.

Instead, Dwumfour urged authorities to adopt measures that protect media operations while ensuring compliance with the law. He stressed that the closure of media organisations would have severe consequences for journalists and other media practitioners, leaving them without jobs. Dwumfour's statement highlights the need for a balanced approach to regulating the media sector.

The GJA President also acknowledged Ghana's 39th position in the 2026 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index. He described this ranking as an important indicator of the country's standing in the protection of press freedom. Dwumfour emphasised that public authorities must exercise their powers in ways that protect citizens' rights and strengthen confidence in democratic governance.

Dwumfour reaffirmed the need for a media environment where journalists can work freely and responsibly without undue interference. He stressed that public authority must be exercised in a way that inspires confidence and reassures citizens that the power they entrusted to their leaders is not being used to trample upon their rights or diminish their freedom.

The Minister's comments had sparked concerns about press freedom in Ghana. Dwumfour's statement is seen as a call to action for the government to ensure that any regulatory measures taken do not harm the livelihoods of journalists and other media professionals. The GJA President's remarks have been welcomed by media practitioners and stakeholders.

The Ghana Journalists Association will continue to advocate for a free and responsible media environment. Dwumfour's statement serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring that journalists can work without fear of reprisal or undue interference. The GJA will monitor the situation and engage with stakeholders to promote a favourable environment for media operations.

Key points

• The GJA President warns against media station closures as a punitive measure for regulatory breaches.