In a thriving democracy like Ghana, media freedom serves as the lifeblood, enabling the free flow of information and holding those in power accountable.
Free media plays a crucial role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance, which are essential for the country’s development.
Accordingly, Dr. Omane Boamah, Director of Elections and IT for the NDC has expressed dismay that since the NDC relinquished power, the media has endured a series of disturbing incidents.
Omane Boamah pointed out that these occurrences have become uncomfortably commonplace, losing their shock value due to their regularity.
He indicated that these episodes were both avoidable and undemocratic, and it was particularly troubling that they happened during the tenure of Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, an Information Minister with a background in media practice.
“I’m referring specifically to the NPP’s hunting of the key actors of the Number 12 documentary, culminating in the gruesome killing of our brother Ahmed Suale and the systematic harassing attacks on our friend and brother Anas Aremeyaw Anas”.
“I’m further referring to the intimidation that made Manasseh Azure Awuni flee for safety under this government. Additionally, I’m referring to the ordeal suffered by Kwabena Bobie Ansah when he was unjustifiably arrested in the line of his journalistic duties”.
Dr. Omane Boamah
Dr. Omane Boamah further drew attention to the distressing ordeals endured by media persons, such as Captain Smart, Caleb Kudah, David Tamakloe, Latif Iddris, Edward Adeti, Oheneba Boamah Bennie, and many others, who were victims of egregious abuse.
He emphasized that the 2016 elections were not a mandate for authoritarian rule, but rather a reaffirmation of Ghana’s commitment to democratic principles and values.
As such, Dr. Omane Boamah emphasized that the country requires a cohesive and collaborative dynamic among the independent arms of government, including the Fourth Estate, to function effectively.
“Similarly, we can not tolerate any attacks on media freedom”. – Dr. Omane Boamah
Media’s Key Role In Accountability
Furthermore, Dr. Omane Boamah highlighted the crucial role of the media in holding institutions accountable.
He cited instances where he corrects false figures released by the Electoral Commission due to basic arithmetic errors and relies on the media to disseminate accurate information through their platforms.
“In the same vein, while in government, I needed the media to amplify our numerous achievements in the digital, health, education, agriculture, roads, and other sectors. This means that the relevance of the media must not always be when one is in opposition”.
That is why President Mahama and I, as your sector minister then, defended media freedoms while in office. [Do] you want evidence? Ask our worst critics. Ask Manasseh Azure Awuni too…”
Dr. Omane Boamah
He further stressed that when disagreements arise with the media, civilized individuals and governments should engage in respectful dialogue, write rejoinders, or offer criticism, rather than resorting to uncivilized tactics.
Dr. Omane Boamah championed the protection of the media, urging an end to practices that harm, harass, or traumatize journalists and media professionals.
He implored citizens to safeguard media liberties with the same urgency as they would their own lives, highlighting that Ghana’s democratic progress is inextricably linked to a thriving and unfettered media landscape.
Dr. Omane Boamah explained that President Mahama aims to revive Ghana’s media landscape by reinstating freedom, revitalizing media practices, and launching new investigations into Ahmed Hussein-Suale’s murder, starting January 7, 2025.
He advocated that, in the meantime, the media should expose and condemn perpetrators through naming and shaming, impose boycotts, and blacklist them, while also reporting them for legal action and other appropriate remedies.
The NDC stalwart emphasized that the media bears the responsibility for safeguarding its own freedom and protection, and must therefore conduct its work with diligence and dedication.
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