In a compelling address during the 10th-anniversary celebration of Sungmaale FM, a Wa-based Islamic Community Radio, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, the Special Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, passionately urged the media to take up the mantle of fighting pervasive corruption in Ghana by holding public officers accountable.
The occasion which was held under the theme ‘Impact of Media to Sociopolitical and Cultural Development in our Community,’ offered Madam Mogtari to emphasize the pivotal role of the media in influencing public opinion and fostering transparency in the electoral process.
Madam Mogtari further underscored the detrimental impact of political corruption on policy and pro-poor initiatives, emphasizing that it is the shared responsibility of both the media and those in power to hold each other accountable.
She called on the media to expose corrupt practices, fostering an environment that ensures a clean and fair electoral process in the upcoming 2024 elections.
“Political corruption is one of the key things that actually militate against our policy and pro-poor initiatives. It is, therefore, the responsibility of our media and especially those in power to hold each other accountable and expose corrupt practices as we go along”
Joyce Bawah Mogtari
Again, the Special Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama highlighted the global recognition of the media’s contribution to advancing democratic principles and national development.
She noted that constitutional provisions safeguarding freedom of expression and protecting media rights are crucial for the independent operation of the media without fear of censorship or intimidation.
However, Mogtari expressed concern over recent assessments indicating a decline in press freedom in Ghana, emphasizing the need for a revitalized commitment to media independence and ethical journalism.
The Media Impact On Public Sentiments And Political Choices
Moreover, Joyce Bawah Mogtari drawing on her legal background emphasized the profound influence of the media on public sentiments, actions, and voting behavior.
She urged the media to play a proactive role in informing and educating the public, especially regarding critical national issues such as the proposed 24-hour economy policy by the National Democratic Congress and its flagbearer, former President John Dramani Mahama.
In addition, Madam Mogtari commended Sungmaale FM for its dedication to promoting cultural and social development within the community and shaping public opinion on crucial matters.
She thus encouraged other media outlets to follow suit, by using their platform to actively engaging in discussions that would informed citizenry and promote effective governance in Ghana.
“Life as a lawyer actually made me realise more than ever the power of the media and how it shapes public sentiments and opinion. The media has the power to influence the way people think, the way we act and the way we vote”
Joyce Bawah Mogtari
Meanwhile, Mr Ubeidu Siddique, the Upper West Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), reiterated the role of the media in educating and informing the public on important national and community matters
The Special Aide to former President John Dramani Mahama, Madam Mogtari’s address undoubtedly serve as a critical reminder of the media’s responsibility in holding political leaders and duty bearers accountable, ultimately contributing to a more transparent, informed, and democratic society.
The call to action by Madam Mogtari on media practitioner particularly resonates with not only the onerous responsibility of the media in Ghana but also echoes the collective responsibility of citizens to demand accountability from those in positions of power.
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