Parliament Adds Voice In Condemning Violence Against Journalists

Parliament has added its voice in condemning violence against journalists as Ghana joins the world to mark international press freedom day today. In a statement to commemorate the day, MP for Tano North, Freda Prempeh, said securing the safety of journalists is more crucial now than ever since according to her the last 10 years have seen the murder of more than 600 hundred journalists and media workers worldwide. She says when people found culpable of the death or injuries of journalists are not brought to book it fuels the crimes against the media. She says the impunity in the attacks against the media sends a signal to the public to keep quiet about corruption, environmental damage or human rights violations. This situation will not only lead to a lawless society but also cause a lack of faith in the rule of law. This year�s international press freedom is throwing the searchlight on ensuring the safety of journalists and media workers, combating impunity against press freedom and online safety. MP for Tano North, Freda Prempeh in her statement gave thumbs up to the country in ensuring press freedom. She however called on the state to bring justice to bear in the few instances of infractions against journalists. MPs who got the chance to contribute to the statement were in unison in commending the media in informing, educating and entertaining the public. They were equally swift in calling on Journalists to be tactful and professional their work. The Minister for Information and Media relations, Mahama Ayariga said government is committed to championing the work of the media culminating in the addition of media relations to the work of the ministry. He also touched on the establishment of the media fund to aid the work of journalists. The MP for Kwesimintsim, Joe Baidoo Ansah charged the media not to be agents of polarization. He said there is the need for most media houses to restructure their morning shows. Ghana currently ranks third in Africa on the International Press Freedom index after Namibia and Cape Verde.