Our freedom indices will be worse if we don’t curb impunity against journalists – Prof. Gadzekpo

As Ghana heads into the 2024 elections, journalists’ safety and press freedom face increasing challenges, raising concerns about democratic accountability.

Once a global leader in press freedom, Ghana has dropped from 30th in 2021 to 62nd in the 2023 World Press Freedom Index, reflecting rising attacks on journalists and inadequate safeguards.

Speaking on JoyNews' AM Show, Prof. Audrey Gadzekpo of the University of Ghana stressed the need for stronger measures against impunity. “A clear signal must be sent that harming journalists has consequences,” she noted.

George Sarpong, Executive Director of the Ghana Media Commission, announced the launch of an app to document journalist attacks and aid prosecutions.

Campaigns like #DefendMediaFreedomGh aim to restore press freedom, critical for a healthy democracy ahead of December 7 polls.