The Upper East Regional Chairman, William Nlanjerbor Jalulah, is urging journalists to prioritize professionalism over material interests, particularly with the upcoming 2024 elections.
“I call on my fellow journalists to place professionalism and the ethics of our profession above all material concerns. We have had, and will continue to have, a stake in the conduct of all elections in this country. Therefore, let us put our country, our democracy, and the development of the nation first whenever we are discharging our duties as journalists,” he said.
He made this statement at the 3rd Upper East Regional GJA Awards ceremony held in Zuarungu, the Bolgatanga East District capital.
The event was held under the theme, “75 Years of the GJA: The Contribution of the Media in Shaping Ghana’s Democracy Through Peaceful and Fair Elections.”
Mr. Jalulah explained that while the celebration is significant, journalists must remain focused on their roles in the upcoming election.
“75 years of existence is worth celebrating, but as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, we should celebrate in moderation and reserve our energy for the upcoming general elections in December. The Ghanaian media has contributed significantly to the country’s growing democracy. However, the changing trends in the media, coupled with the fast-growing social media space, require us to up our game.”
He reminded journalists of their role in holding duty bearers accountable.
“In these electioneering times, let us remember that we have a duty to hold duty bearers accountable while they seek the mandate of the people. They must not make sweeping promises without being asked how they will fulfill them. And for those seeking re-election, we must hold them accountable for their stewardship. If the people are satisfied with their performance, they can renew their mandate.”
The awards ceremony was held in partnership with the USAID/Feed the Future Ghana Policy Link Activity and the SHARE Project through its implementing agencies as major sponsors.
Other sponsors included Cardinal Namdini, Earl Gold International, the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council, AfriKids, Youth Harvest Foundation, Mathew Amoah Foundation, and the Blue Sky Hotel.
A total of 15 awards were given to deserving journalists, including 6 honorary awards. One of the honorary awards was posthumously presented to Emmanuel Akayeti, a former staff member of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation.
Source: A1radioonline.com|101.1MHz|Mark Kwasi Ahumah Smith|Ghana
