PRESIDENT JOHN Dramani Mahama has advised journalists to always cross check their information before coming out with a publication in the media.
This wise counsel, the President said, when adhered to by journalists, would prevent legal issues and also help deepen the public’s trust and respect for the media.
President Mahama was speaking during the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) awards ceremony, which was held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Saturday.
He said there have been some instances when some journalists, in a rush to be first to break a news story, failed woefully to cross check their information.
President Mahama said the public rely solely on the media for information, education and entertainment so journalists should always try and uphold credibility.
The historic programme was attended by His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, top government officials, chiefs, journalists and others.
President Mahama, continuing, assured that his administration would never allow any room for intimidation and attacks on journalists in the state.
According to him, media freedom in the country would be upheld to the latter so far as he remained the Commander in chief of the Ghana Armed Forces.
He was, however, quick to remind journalists that they should always be guided by the principles and ethics of their noble profession, which is much respected.
The president said as part of his administration’s efforts to ensure media freedom, he has instructed for a dialogue between media and the security agencies.
The media and security agencies, he opined, both play key roles in safeguarding the country’s democracy and rule of law so they should work closely together.
Meanwhile, the GJA presented a special award to the Asantehene for his unique leadership style which has ensured peace and unity in Asanteman and Ghana.
Deserving journalists were also awarded with Godwin Asediba of TV3 and Media General taking home the grand prize of being the overall Best Journalist award.
