The Director of Elections and IT for the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, is calling for collective efforts to protect the freedom and independence of the media.
He emphasised the critical role that the media plays in safeguarding and sustaining Ghana’s democracy.
Dr. Omane Boamah urged that when disagreements with media reports occur, the appropriate response should be to engage with the media constructively by seeking corrections or requesting a rejoinder rather than resorting to attacks.
He highlighted the importance of addressing issues through dialogue rather than confrontation.
Speaking at JoyNews’ National Dialogue on Defending Media Freedom on Thursday, August 29, Dr Omane Boamah urged all Ghanaians to stand up for media freedom, stressing that the well-being of the nation is closely tied to the liberty of the press.He underscored that without the freedoms enjoyed by the media, Ghana’s democracy would not have flourished as it has.
The NDC Director of IT and Elections credited the media for its indispensable role in the country’s democratic growth.
In his remarks, Dr Omane Boamah reiterated the necessity for all stakeholders to prioritise the defence of media freedom, as it is a cornerstone of the nation’s democratic foundation.
“Do you want evidence? Ask our worst critics. Ask Manasseh Azure Awuni too… If you disagree with a journalist or a media house, call them, write a rejoinder… criticise them…”
“That is what civilised societies, governments, and civilized people do. Don’t kill the media! Don’t torture the media! Don’t negatively impact the mental health of media practitioners! Folks, let us defend media freedoms as if our lives depend on them. Actually, our lives do,” he said.
Dr Omane Boamah advised the media to penalise individuals who choose to abuse the institution.
“Name and shame, boycott and blacklist perpetrators and report them for prosecution and other forms of redress,” he added.
Source: myjoyonline.com
