Without the media, there is no democracy – Major (rtd) Don-Chebe

Major (rtd) Albert Don-Chebe, former Director-General of the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC), has described the media as the foundation of democracy because it safeguards and promotes democratic governance and accountability. “For those of us for whom free speech is so critical, we understand that without the media, there is no democracy, and the health of any democracy can be determined from how free the media in that society is”, he explained. Major Don-Chebe said this at the second edition of the Upper West Regional Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards ceremony held in Wa at the weekend. The ceremony, held under the theme “Upholding Media Excellence: Promoting Ethical Journalism, Accountability, and Regional Development”, recognised seven outstanding journalists and media practitioners for their contributions to the profession’s growth.

They were: Philip Tengzu of the Ghana News Agency; Ibrahim Muniru, Radio Mak; Ayamga Bawa Fatawu, a Freelance Journalist; Rafiq Nungor Adam, Channel 247; Ibrahim Abubakari Wangara, Media General; Gladys Wein Kitty, GBC Radio Upper West; and Kwadwo Baffoe Donkor of Daily Graphic. Major Don-Chebe, who chaired the event, expressed concern about Ghana’s ranking on the media freedom index, but added that media freedom in the country was gradually improving. “I am looking forward to us coming down to the high heights that we achieved some ten years or so ago when we were counted among the first 25 countries with the freest media in the world”, he stated. He said initiatives such as the awards ceremony provided an important platform to appreciate, acknowledge and motivate journalists to remain committed to their professional responsibilities. Mr Dominic Hlordzi, the General Secretary of the GJA, who represented the GJA President…