The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has urged the media to rigorously fact-check and counter misinformation as the country gears up for the 2024 general elections.

Highlighting the media's crucial role in shaping public opinion, holding leaders accountable, and ensuring transparency in governance, these remarks were delivered at the inauguration of the 28th GJA Awards Committee in Accra.

President of the Ghana Journalists Association, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for fairness and balance in media reporting throughout the election period.

Mr. Dwumfour underscored the media's critical role in the electoral process, asserting that their performance is vital to the nation's democratic success. He emphasized that responsible journalism is essential and that the media cannot afford to fail the nation.

In addition to advocating for accurate and balanced reporting, the GJA president encouraged journalists to actively combat misinformation. He believes that by doing so, the media can help ensure a well-informed electorate and a smooth, peaceful election process.

"The media has the power to influence voter behaviour and hold leaders accountable. I must emphasise, however, that with this power of the media, comes a great responsibility to ensure democratic governance and peaceful elections."

"The media must provide balanced and impartial reporting and avoid sensationalism and bias, focus on issue-based reporting, rather than personality-driven coverage. Give voice to diverse perspectives, including marginalised communities and fact-check and debunk misinformation."

“In an era where fake news, polarising narratives and disinformation spread like wildfire, it is therefore important for the media to remain alert and fact-check what comes through to them."

"It is the only way, as the fourth Estate of the Realm, we can be said to be playing our constitutionally mandated role," he stated.

The nine-member awards committee is chaired by George-Ramsey Benamba, Chief Editor at the Ghana News Agency. Other members include Jamila Akweley Okertchiri, Editor at the Daily Guide Network; Loretta Vanderpuye, Regional Director at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation; Joana Afua Mensah, News Editor at United Television (UTV); and Isaac Yeboah, Senior Editor at Myjoyonline.com.

Additional members are William Asiedu, Head of News at 3FM; Michael Quaye, Deputy News Editor at Daily Graphic; International Photojournalist Nana Kofi Acquah; and Isaac Nuamah Yeboah, News Director at Atinka Media Village.