The Chancellor of the University of Cape Coast (UCC), Sir Sam Jonah, has expressed concern over the potential lack of professional coverage of the upcoming 2024 elections in Ghana.

Speaking at the launch of the 75th-anniversary celebrations of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra, Sir Sam Jonah lamented the increasing polarization of the media landscape and warned against the influence of political patronage and material rewards on journalistic independence.

Sir Sam Jonah emphasized the importance of unbiased and professional coverage of the electoral process, considering it to be the most consequential in Ghana's history.

He expressed his apprehension about the media's ability to provide such coverage, citing the handling of issues like galamsey, which he described as an egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihoods have been decimated by illegal mining operations.

“As we stand on the precipice of yet another electoral milestone, in my view, the most consequential, the echoes of past violence, the whispers of disenfranchisement looms and I don't think anyone needs reminding that the conduct of the electoral exercise together with its outcome is so important that the nation cannot afford bias and unprofessional coverage of it by members of your profession.

"I wish I could be confident that the coverage will be professional but am afraid I can't, given the largely unserious way in which another important national issue- the most egregious abuse of the rights of millions whose livelihood has been decimated completely by galamsey operations, has been treated by your profession," he said.

Addressing journalists directly, Sir Sam Jonah urged them to be the bridge over troubled waters, ensuring that every Ghanaian, regardless of political allegiance, finds solace and strength in the truth.

He stressed the critical role of the media in fostering national unity and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process.