Government spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has warned journalists and media organisations against sacrificing credibility for sensational headlines.
Speaking at the British High Commission residence during an event to mark World Press Freedom Day, the Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese MP stressed that the media must protect public trust at all costs. He cautioned that misinformation now poses a major threat to Ghana’s democracy and national stability.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu addressed journalists, diplomats and other media stakeholders, emphasising that press freedom is essential to democratic sustainability.
“A government that fears questions has already lost its confidence, and a society that silences journalists has already begun to lose its democracy,” he said.
He noted that journalism must not be viewed as an enemy of government, stressing that good journalism is actually an “ally” of the state. He reiterated the government’s commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists.
“On behalf of the Government of Ghana, I reaffirm our commitment to protect the safety of journalists, to uphold media pluralism and to ensure that no reporter is harassed, detained or threatened for doing lawful work,” he said.
Mr Kwakye Ofosu added: “We now live in an age where a single falsehood can travel around the world in seconds while the truth is still putting on its shoes.”
However, he warned journalists against coordinated disinformation, deepfakes designed to inflame ethnic and political tensions, and clickbait meant to monetise falsehoods.
“This is not just a media problem. It is a national security problem. It is a public health problem as it is a democratic problem,” he stressed.
The MP appealed to the Ghana Journalists Association and the National Media Commission to strengthen self-regulation and enhance ethical standards in the profession.