By Victor Raul Puobabangna Plance
In any thriving democracy, media freedom remains one of the most crucial pillars for socio-economic development. It provides a voice for the voiceless, holds leadership accountable, and educates the public on issues that shape their lives. Ghana, with its long-standing democratic credentials and constitutional guarantees for press freedom, stands tall among nations on the African continent. However, there is a growing concern about how the misuse of this very freedom could sow seeds of division, undermine democratic stability, and eventually lead to conflicts or even wars. History offers ample evidence of instances where media freedoms were abused to dangerous ends. Across the globe, we have seen how irresponsible journalism, unchecked biases, and partisan media practices have inflamed tensions, escalated conflicts, and devastated nations. Rwanda’s 1994 genocide is a chilling reminder of how reckless media actions can weaponise speech to divide societies and fuel unimaginable horrors. Ghana, a beacon of democracy in West Africa, must heed these lessons and guard against such pitfalls.
The Role of Media in Ghana’s Socio-Economic Development:
Press freedom, when used responsibly, serves as a driving force for progress. It empowers citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions. It shines a light on corruption, creating a deterrent for those who might abuse power. A free and impartial press can amplify developmental priorities—such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and poverty alleviation—by raising awareness and facilitating public discourse. But this immense power comes with a profound responsibility. When the media abandons its role as a neutral observer and starts advancing political agendas, the consequences can be far-reaching. It risks losing public trust, polarising communities, and creating an environment of misinformation and disillusionment.
Setting Political Agendas: A Dangerous Path
Ghana’s political landscape has witnessed a growing trend where sections of the media are seen as tools for advancing partisan agendas. This is particularly dangerous when the media consciously or unconsciously focuses its efforts on championing the removal of a sitting government, as has been speculated in recent times. For instance, should media outlets push narratives that delegitimise one political party or government in favour of another, they inadvertently become political actors rather than watchdogs of democracy. But here lies the danger: if the media is perceived as orchestrating the downfall of one government, the public will naturally expect it to hold the succeeding administration to equal—if not higher—standards. If this new administration fails to deliver on its promises, the same media that supported its rise will face backlash, ridicule, and growing skepticism. Its credibility will erode, and its influence will diminish. In such scenarios, the media’s legitimacy as a neutral arbiter is shattered, making it susceptible to attacks and suppression. This outcome not only threatens press freedom but weakens the very foundations of democracy.
Lessons to Learn: Media, Politics, and Public Trust:
The media in Ghana must remember that its primary allegiance is to the truth and the citizens it serves, not to any political party. While it is acceptable to hold governments accountable and critique policies, it is equally important to do so without bias or ulterior motives. Partisan reporting may yield short-term gains for political actors, but it ultimately undermines the role of the press as an independent institution. Furthermore, the erosion of public trust in the media opens doors for authoritarian tendencies. If citizens lose faith in the press, they will be less inclined to defend it when its freedoms come under threat. This could lead to increased government control, censorship, and limitations on journalists’ ability to operate freely—taking Ghana back to darker times when press freedom was severely constrained.
The Way Forward: Safeguarding Press Freedom:
To avoid this dangerous trajectory, the media must reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, integrity, and impartiality. This involves:
1. Adhering to Ethical Journalism: Journalists and media houses must uphold principles of truth, accuracy, and balance. Sensationalism and bias must give way to responsible reporting that prioritises the public good.
2. Rejecting Political Manipulation: Media organisations must resist the temptation to serve as mouthpieces for political parties. By maintaining neutrality, they preserve their credibility and safeguard public trust.
3. Promoting Development-Oriented Reporting: Ghana’s socio-economic progress must take center stage. The media can play a transformative role by highlighting issues like unemployment, education, healthcare, and infrastructure—while holding leaders accountable for their promises.
4. Educating the Public on Media Literacy: Citizens must be equipped to distinguish between credible journalism and propaganda. Media literacy programs will help combat misinformation and ensure an informed populace.
Conclusion
Ghana’s hard-won press freedom must not be taken for granted. Its misuse—whether intentional or not—could plunge the nation into political turmoil and weaken democratic governance. If the media fails to rise above partisan interests, it risks losing public trust and, with it, the freedoms it enjoys. The path forward is clear: a media landscape built on truth, fairness, and responsibility. By staying true to its role as the fourth estate of democracy, the media can continue to drive Ghana’s socio-economic development and safeguard its peace and stability for generations to come. As the saying goes, “Freedom without responsibility is a recipe for chaos.” Ghana’s media must choose responsibility, for the cost of failure is far too great to bear.
