Ghana Election 2024

Media Coalition accuses EC of undermining press freedom in Ghana with decision to limit media access

Dec 6, 2024 - 20:46

Albert Kwabena Dwumfour is president of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA)

The Media Coalition, a umbrella group comprising the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), and the New Media Association of Ghana (NMAG) has strongly condemned the Electoral Commission's decision to restrict media access to the National Collation Centre., describing it as a "serious threat" to the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.

In a statement released on Friday Dec 6, the coalition accused the Electoral Commission of lacking fairness, transparency, and a consultative framework in its decision to grant limited accreditation to select media houses and journalists.

The group also questioned the methodology used by the Electoral Commission to select media outlets and journalists for accreditation, citing concerns over potential bias and lack of transparency.

The Media Coalition urged the Electoral Commission to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of open and inclusive media coverage during elections.

The leadership of the coalition, represented by Albert Dwumfour (GJA President), Cecil Sunkwa-Mills (GIBA President), Edwin Arthur (PRINPAG President), and Eugene Osafo Nkansah (NMAG President), signed the statement, signifying their united stance.

The group also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism in election coverage and combating misinformation.