President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting journalists and upholding press freedom, warning that his administration will not tolerate intimidation, interference, or violence against members of the media.

Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Kumasi, where Godwin Asediba of TV3 was crowned 2024 Journalist of the Year, President Mahama condemned the attacks on journalists and civilians during the 2020 and 2024 general elections.

He disclosed that investigations have identified 21 individuals linked to those incidents—four have been arrested and granted bail, five are on remand, and warrants have been issued for the remaining suspects.

The Attorney-General, he said, is reviewing the report to determine appropriate legal actions and possible compensation for victims and families of those who lost their lives.

“Justice will be served. Those responsible will face the consequences of their actions,” President Mahama assured.

Addressing the ceremony’s theme, “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security, and the Fight Against Galamsey,” President Mahama said he has directed the Ministers for Government Communications and Security to establish a permanent dialogue platform between the media and security agencies to prevent future confrontations.

He expressed concern about Ghana’s decline in the 2025 Press Freedom Index, pledging to restore the country’s reputation as a beacon of media freedom in Africa.

President Mahama also assured that upcoming legislation — including the Cyber Security Amendment Bill 2025 and the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill — will aim to protect citizens and promote truth online, not to curtail freedom of expression.

Responding to concerns from the GJA and civil society groups, he promised that his government will engage transparently and constructively to ensure that media freedoms are preserved.

“Freedom of expression does not include the freedom to destroy reputations,” he said, emphasising the need to extend journalistic ethics into the digital space while safeguarding constitutional rights.

On illegal mining, President Mahama warned that his government will take decisive action against communities or individuals who attack public officials or security personnel enforcing anti-galamsey laws.

“I will never give up the fight against galamsey. We must protect our lands and water bodies for future generations,” he declared.