The Ministry of National Security has collaborated with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to offer security to Journalists in their line of duties.
This was after the GJA paid a courtesy call to the National Security Minister, Albert Kan-Dapaah on Wednesday, December 14.
GJA President, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour explained that “The aim of the courtesy call as we just did, is to introduce ourselves to our key partners like the Ministry of National Security to re-engage and share our vision and plans for journalists in the country.”
According to the Ministry, the future of the country is in the hands of the media, therefore there is every need to protect such an independent body.
Speaking at the meeting the National Security Coordinator, Edward Kwaku Asomani assured that National Security will do everything in its power to protect journalists in the line of duty since it is in the interest of the nation.
“In history, people have fought for this freedom that we enjoy today. It is therefore important that we do everything in our power to protect journalists in the practice of their duty.
“It will inure to our benefit in the long run…”
Mr. Asomani continued that a strong association that holds its members accountable is also beneficial to the Ministry.
Meanwhile, Minister of National Security, Albert Kan-Dapaah cautioned journalists to be careful with their choice of words when performing their duties.
“Believe me, the future of the country is in your hands. It is in the hands of what we call the Key Vertical Accountability Institutions. A Key Vertical Accountability Institution is the Media because they are completely independent. The more powerful you are, the better it is for the country,”
He also urged the President of GJA to ensure that the welfare of its members is protected.
“…But do not use that power to destroy the very country that you are supposed to serve. It is only within your profession that we have people who work 20 hours a day and yet they are not on any salary. I mean clearly, this should not be acceptable. Mr. President, is it not possible that during your presidency, you demand that every journalist be paid something.”
Mr. Albert Dwumfour, for his part, said there is need for the two stakeholders to collaborate more to promote peace and security in the country since they have a similar mandate to ensure peace and stability.
