The Deputy Director of Communications for the Movement for Change, Courage Nobi, has highlighted the importance of leadership actions and inactions in ensuring press freedom in the country.

According to him, the leaders need to commit to ensuring that the press is truly free to carry out its mandate.

In view of this, Mr Nobi called on all political actors to desist from inflammatory rhetoric in the political arena in the election period and beyond.

He made this pronouncement in his brief remarks on behalf of the Movement for Change at the Joy Brands National Dialogue on Defending Press Freedom on Thursday.

“It is the commitment of leadership that can ensure that the press is free to do its job. Given that, I will call for a de-escalation of the rhetoric in the political space ahead of the election,” he noted.

The Deputy Communications Director further noted that although the flagbearers of the various political parties are never seen attacking journalists, their followers, particularly of the two biggest parties, often do so.

Mr Nobi pointed out that the actions of followers are often influenced by the statements and commentary of their leaders. He therefore urged political leaders to be mindful of their language and conduct, especially during the campaign season, to foster a respectful and safe environment for the press.

“Many times, you will not find President Mahama attacking journalists, nor would you find Dr. Bawumia attacking a journalist, but it is their followers.

“It is important that as political actors, we are decorous in our engagements throughout this campaigning season,” he stressed.

He reiterating the commitment of the Movement for Change to advancing the nation through responsible and constructive political engagement.