President Mahama‘s membership in the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has been criticised by a Wontumi TV broadcaster.
A discussion over the function and impact of the GJA in Ghanaian politics and media was sparked by the presenter’s description of this association as regrettable.
A professional organisation representing journalists nationwide, the Ghana Journalists Association seeks to preserve press freedom, professionalism, and ethical standards.
However, considering the political tensions that frequently surface in Ghana’s media scene, the Wontumi TV presenter said that President Mahama’s affiliation with the GJA confuses impressions of neutrality and impartiality.
The presenter said that the presence of a well-known political figure such as President Mahama in the GJA could damage the group’s reputation and raise questions about potential bias.
The worry is that if the GJA has powerful politicians among its members who could influence the association’s position on important topics, the organization’s ability to act as an impartial watchdog may be jeopardised.
This viewpoint has generated a mixed response from the public and media practitioners alike. Supporters of President Mahama argue that membership in the GJA does not necessarily affect his political responsibilities or the organization’s independence.
They maintain that professionals from various fields, including politics, can coexist within associations without jeopardizing their core values.
Nonetheless, the debate highlights ongoing challenges related to media independence, political influence, and professional boundaries in Ghana.
It also raises questions about how journalists and politicians interact within professional networks and what impact these relationships have on public trust.
