By Samuel Akumatey, GNA
Ho, Nov 1, GNA- Dr Archibald Yao Letsa, Volta Regional Minister has asked journalists not to be intimidated by recent attacks on some practitioners and shy away from exposing rots in society.
He said the attacks were condemnable and must stop, urging journalists to see them as occupational hazards and « move on ».
Dr Letsa said this when he launched the second edition of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Volta Regional Chapter Awards in Ho.
He also charged journalists not to be deterred by acts of people in public service to shirk their responsibility to society, but keep their searchlights on institutions for public good.
The Minister highlighted the role of the media in national development, and asked them to be « bold » and do more to improve delivery in health, education, and local governance.
He called for fairness and objectivity, especially among radio show hosts. « Morning show hosts must be fair. They need to be cautious when setting the agenda, and must not encourage programmes that do not educate, inform or entertain », Dr. Letsa said.
Mr A. B. Kafui Kanyi, Volta GJA Chairman said it was becoming increasingly necessary to raise awareness among members of the public on the role the media played in shaping public opinion and strengthening society.
He mentioned efforts by the Regional Association to help revive dormant local industries, focusing on road networks in the region, health, education, and local governance and expressed worry over attempts to « blame journalists for the perceived underdevelopment of the region ».
« We are gradually being reduced to punching bags with three incidents of attack in the month of October in our region. This is an attack on democracy and we call on government, the police and other stakeholders to help address the soaring phenomenon », Mr Kanyi said.
Mr Dela Gadzanku, Chairman of the Volta/Eastern Chapter of the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) called on journalists to exhibit responsibility in their reportage, and re-echoed the Association’s resolve to continue working with the media to develop Volta into an economic giant.
Mr Kudjoh Atta, District Chief Executive of North Dayi, and Dean of Municipal and District Chief Executives in the region said the Chief Executives recognised the responsibilities of the media in society, and endorsed Volta media as being « above reproach ».
He asked journalists to take up « serious » reporting, shun sensationalism, and continue to help local authorities champion government’s efforts.
Mr Atta pledged an amount of GHC12,500 from the Assembles in support of the awards.
Mama Attrato II, Queenmother of Ho Dome who chaired the launch also condemned attacks on journalists.
The awards dinner is on the theme: « Media, Key Partner in Development », and would award practitioners who excelled in 13 categories including; best morning show hosts in the Ewe, Twi, and the English languages.
The event is being powered by the Electricity Company of Ghana with a support package of GHC 10,000.
Other sponsors include; the AGI, Stanbic Bank, Pencils of Promise, Skyplus Hotels, African Hill Resorts and Afe Lotto.
The awards dinner comes off on December 1, 2018, hosted by the Skyplus Hotel in Ho at 1800hours.
GNA
KK/GRB
