The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has expressed concern about statements made by some public officials that demean journalists and the work of the media.

According to him, one of the key issues affecting press freedom is the denigration of journalists or media work by government officials through public remarks.

Speaking at JoyNews’ national dialogue on defending media freedom on Thursday, Mr Dwumfour condemned a comment made by the former Minister of Works and Housing, Atta Akyea, who encouraged voters to elect an economist rather than a journalist to lead Ghana.

“Mr Atta Akyea’s assertion that journalist lacks expertise is misinformation and discriminatory. This stereotype ignores the diverse academic and professional backgrounds of journalists, many of whom own advanced degrees and occupy esteemed positions,” he said.

During the launch of the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) 2024 manifesto, Mr Atta Akyea expressed his belief that Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s expertise in economics is crucial for the country’s economic recovery.

He remarked, "When it comes to issues of the economy, we should hand over that issue to him. For the first time, this country is going to have a president who is an economist, not a journalist."

In response, Mr Dwumfour expressed intrigue that the Akim Abuakwa South MP implied that only an economist could effectively lead the country.

He pointed out that since the Fourth Republic, Ghana has had several presidents who were not economists, aside from the late former President John Evans Atta Mills, and questioned whether their lack of economic background rendered them ineffective.

"Absolutely not. In fact, Ghana’s progress under these leaders disproves Mr Atta Akyea’s assertion," he stressed.

He demanded a retraction and an apology from Mr Atta Akyea for the comments.

Mr Dwumfour also appealed to the judiciary to expedite cases involving assaults on journalists, emphasising that swift justice would send a clear message to perpetrators and ensure the protection of press freedom.

He further stated that the government plays a crucial role in society and urged both current officials and those aspiring to be in government to uphold the right to free expression and ensure journalists and media institutions work without fear.

"As civil society organizations (CSOs) and stakeholders, we must ensure that the government does not interfere in ways that hinder the work of the media," Mr Dwumfour added.