Sunyani: Raphael Godlove Ahenu, a development and anti-corruption advocate, has voiced concerns over the diminishing relevance of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in the country's governance architecture. He emphasized the need for competent leadership as the association prepares for its upcoming elections on June 30, 2025.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Ahenu, who is also the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Global Media Foundation (GloMeF), highlighted the necessity for a comprehensive overhaul of the GJA to enhance its impact on national progress. In a recent interview, he criticized the association for failing in its critical role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.
The GJA, which serves as the nation's largest umbrella organization for journalists, is set to elect new national and regional executives to lead the association for the next three years. Mr. Ahenu compared journalists and the GJA to "sleeping dogs that cannot even bark," lamenting the association's silence on pressing national issues. He stressed the importance of dynamic, creative, and innovative leadership to reposition the GJA in addressing the challenges within the media and political landscape.
Mr. Ahenu further stated that Ghana requires a vibrant GJA to champion press freedom, demand accountability from duty-bearers, and empower journalists to uphold the ethics and integrity of their profession. He encouraged members of the association to elect leaders who are courageous, visionary, and competent, warning that the association risks becoming entirely irrelevant if the status quo persists.
In conclusion, Mr. Ahenu urged the GJA to awaken from its slumber to protect the sanctity of journalism and contribute significantly to the nation's democratic development.
