President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaian journalists to maintain high standards of integrity and professionalism in their reporting as the country approaches the 2024 general elections.

Speaking at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards and the association’s 75th anniversary celebration in Accra on Saturday, 28 September 2024, the President warned of the dangers posed by misinformation and sensationalism, urging the media to act as guardians of truth in a fast-evolving digital age.

Highlighting the pivotal role the media plays in shaping public perception, especially during elections, President Akufo-Addo stressed the need for accurate and balanced reporting.

“Every four years, Ghanaians go to the polls to choose their leaders, and in that process, the media plays an indispensable role. It’s through your work that citizens are informed about the policies of political parties, the integrity of candidates, and the issues that matter most to their lives,” he said.

As Ghana prepares for the 2024 elections, Akufo-Addo urged journalists to remain vigilant and avoid spreading false information that could undermine the democratic process.

“In the age of social media, where information travels faster than ever, journalists must rise to the occasion by being the gatekeepers of the truth, ensuring that facts prevail over falsehoods,” he emphasised.

The President acknowledged the media’s historical role in supporting peaceful elections and democratic transitions in Ghana.

He noted that the stakes are particularly high in the upcoming elections, and the media’s responsibility to deliver accurate and fair coverage has never been more crucial.

“As we prepare for another election cycle, I call on the media to continue its vital work, reporting with integrity, ensuring fairness in coverage, and providing voters with the accurate, timely, and comprehensive information they need to make informed decisions,” he added.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to media freedom, Akufo-Addo emphasised the importance of a free and independent press in strengthening Ghana’s democracy.

“I remain deeply committed to ensuring that the media in Ghana remains free, vibrant, and independent. Your work is essential to the strength of our democracy, the integrity of our elections, and the progress of our nation,” he concluded.