GJA calls off AGM over lack of quorum

**GJA Cancels 2025 AGM Due to Lack of Quorum**

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) canceled its 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday. This decision came after they could not raise a quorum to conduct business.

The meeting was originally set for Monday, March 31, 2025. It was postponed to Wednesday, April 2, due to Eid-ul-Fitr festivities. Unfortunately, the GJA had to call off the meeting for the second time in three years.

According to Article 34(d) of the GJA Constitution, at least 10 percent of members must be present for a quorum. With 797 members in good standing, only about 30 qualified members attended almost an hour after the scheduled start time.

Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, GJA President, expressed disappointment over this situation. He noted it was frustrating that they could not hold the meeting again under his administration.

He stated that the Executive was ready to account for their work and discuss proposals for growth. “We have made ourselves available to engage our members,” he said.

Mr. Dwumfour emphasized that they appreciate the trust placed in them by members. However, without a quorum, they cannot hold an AGM as required by their constitution.

He urged members to show more commitment and urgency regarding Association matters. “We should attach urgency and seriousness when it comes to our beloved Association,” he added.

Mr. Kofi Yeboah, GJA Secretary, spoke with media after the cancellation. He warned that not holding the AGM would negatively impact key issues facing the Association.

These issues include journalist safety, member welfare, and upcoming national elections within the Association. Mr. Yeboah mentioned that while concerns could be addressed at an Emergency General Meeting (EGM), decisions may not be constitutional.

He highlighted a significant issue regarding newly created regions where some members do not meet eligibility requirements for regional executive positions. They planned to seek a waiver at the AGM so newer members could still contest elections.

Without holding an EGM or AGM soon, these regions might lack qualified candidates for elections. This is one consequence of failing to hold the AGM.

To address future quorum issues, Mr. Yeboah suggested amending the Association's constitution. He noted it has always been challenging to achieve quorum for AGMs.

“It’s important for us all to consider what we want moving forward,” he said about potential constitutional changes regarding quorum requirements.

“We need collective decisions on this matter,” he concluded.