The Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting press freedom while warning that deliberate misinformation and fake news will not be tolerated under the guise of journalism.
Speaking on behalf of John Dramani Mahama at the 2nd Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) World Press Freedom Day Honours Night held at the Alisa Hotel on June 6, 2026, the minister stressed that a free and independent media remains essential to democratic governance. However, he maintained that freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and should not be used to spread false information capable of causing harm to society.
Addressing journalists, media executives, diplomats and civil society representatives, Mr. George stated that the government welcomes critical reporting and investigative journalism, describing media scrutiny as a vital component of a healthy democracy.
Government Raises Concern Over Disinformation
The minister expressed concern about the increasing circulation of unverified and misleading information across digital platforms and some media outlets. According to him, the deliberate publication of false narratives undermines professional journalism and poses risks to national security, public health and social stability.
He argued that while legitimate journalism serves the public interest through factual reporting and accountability, the intentional spread of falsehoods seeks to create confusion, division and mistrust.
Mr. George emphasized that regulatory and legal frameworks governing the media are designed to maintain order and protect the public rather than suppress free speech. He noted that government intervention against misinformation would be carried out transparently and within the law whenever necessary.
Commitment to Press Freedom
The minister highlighted what he described as the government’s strong record in safeguarding media freedom. He pointed out that journalists have continued to operate freely, criticize government policies and investigate public institutions without facing state-sponsored intimidation or censorship.
According to him, President Mahama views criticism and media oversight as fundamental aspects of democratic leadership rather than threats to government authority.
He said administrations that fear scrutiny often have reasons to avoid accountability, adding that the current government remains committed to openness and transparency.
Ghana’s Progress in Global Press Freedom Rankings
Mr. George also referenced Ghana’s improved performance in international press freedom assessments, noting that the country recently climbed significantly in global rankings for media freedom.
He attributed the progress to the resilience of Ghanaian journalists, improvements in media infrastructure and ongoing efforts to expand digital access across the country.
The minister described the internet as a modern-day printing press, stressing that digital freedoms must be protected while ensuring online spaces are not exploited for the spread of harmful misinformation.
Economic Challenges Facing the Media
Beyond issues of press freedom and regulation, Mr. George raised concerns about the economic challenges confronting journalists and media organizations.
He noted that inadequate remuneration and financial insecurity can leave journalists vulnerable to external influence and compromise editorial independence. He therefore encouraged the Ghana Journalists Association to continue advocating for improved working conditions and sustainable business models within the media industry.
The minister assured stakeholders that government remains interested in supporting policies that strengthen media sustainability while preserving editorial independence and professional standards.
As Ghana continues to navigate the evolving digital information landscape, Mr. George reiterated that the government’s objective is to uphold both media freedom and responsible journalism, ensuring that democratic rights are protected without allowing misinformation to undermine public trust and national development.
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