At the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, speaking on behalf of President Mahama, drew a clear line between free speech and incitement. He stated that threats to the President's life and those of his children are not excusable as expression, but rather brazen criminality. This statement comes amid concerns over the safety of journalists and the limits of free speech in Ghana.
Kwakye Ofosu cautioned political leaders against shielding incitement, warning that they must not support criminal conduct for political gain. He emphasized that a democracy can survive disagreement but not deliberate incitement of hatred, violence, and intolerance. The Minister also highlighted the challenges faced by journalists in Ghana's north, where some had to flee the country due to fear for their lives after publishing uncomfortable reports.
The government has clarified that it does not require favorable coverage from journalists to engage with them. Kwakye Ofosu stated that a government confident in its democratic standing must be ready to face hard questions and accept fair criticism. He encouraged journalists to criticize government shortcomings, acknowledge genuine achievements, and press for explanations where the public interest demands it.
The Minister also addressed the physical safety of journalists, stating that no reporter should be assaulted, threatened, or unlawfully detained while carrying out legitimate professional work. He emphasized that allegations of attacks, including those involving security personnel, must be investigated, and accountability must follow where wrongdoing is confirmed. The GJA has documented over 50 incidents of attacks, arrests, and harassment of journalists between 2022 and January 2026.
Kwakye Ofosu's comments come amid ongoing tension between the GJA and government officials over press freedom matters. The GJA President, Albert Dwumfour, recently disagreed with Communications Minister Sam George over claims that journalists had "ran to Mahama" with complaints. The government has insisted that it will not act as editor of Ghana's newsrooms amid talk of possible closures affecting some media houses.
Ghana recently climbed to 39th on a global press freedom index, a ranking the GJA leadership said should not breed complacency. The GJA Media Awards, held under the theme "Celebrating Excellence, Advancing Media Freedom and Combating Hate Speech in the Digital Age," brought together journalists, media owners, and government officials to recognize outstanding reporting while addressing the threats facing the profession.
The event highlighted the importance of balancing free speech with the need to prevent incitement and protect journalists. Kwakye Ofosu's remarks underscored the government's commitment to upholding democratic values and ensuring the safety of journalists. The GJA and government officials must continue to engage in constructive dialogue to address the challenges facing Ghana's media landscape.
Key points
- Threats to kill President Mahama and his children are considered brazen criminality, not free speech.
- The government does not require favorable coverage from journalists to engage with them.
- Over 50 incidents of attacks, arrests, and harassment of journalists have been documented between 2022 and January 2026.
