‘Be courageous, find your voice to defend our democracy’ — Sam Jonah urges journalists

Ghanaian businessman and Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast Sir Sam Jonah has urged Ghanaian media practitioners to speak out courageously in defence of Ghana's democracy.

Speaking at the launch of the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Wednesday, April 17, Sir Sam Jonah said journalists must be "concerned about some disturbing developments in our national discourse."

He expressed worry over threats to Ghana's democratic principles and social fabric.

“In this era, where the essence of our democracy and the fabric of our society are tested, let us recommit ourselves to the principles that Ephraim Amu so eloquently espoused,” said Sir Sam Jonah.

The 75th GJA anniversary is being marked under the theme "75 years of excellence in journalism: Past, present, and the future."

Sir Sam Jonah encouraged journalists to use their platforms to shed light on issues like "the perceived weaponisation of state agencies against opponents, the creeping assault on freedom of the press, the perceived lack of trust in the dispensation of justice, and the pathetic lack of accountability in the protection of the public purse."

"This is the time for patriots to find their voices," he asserted, adding, “This is the time to be fearless and courageous. We cannot and must not compromise on our defence of the national interest."

The business magnate argued that a free press is crucial to Ghana's democratic success.

“The success of our attempt at a democratic order will depend crucially on how free the press is,” he noted.

His call comes amid concerns of shrinking press freedom and attacks on journalists in the country in recent times.