“Journalists Are Not Government Enemies” — Debrah Defends Press Freedom
The Chief of Staff Dr Julius Debrah has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom and the right to peaceful protest, stressing that journalists who scrutinise government policies should not be regarded as enemies of the state.
Speaking at a forum in Accra, on governance and accountability, Dr. Debrah cautioned against the growing tendency to equate criticism of government with disloyalty, arguing that democratic governance depends on openness, accountability and the freedom to question those in authority.
“Journalists who question the government are not enemies of the state. Peaceful protest is a constitutional right, and leadership must defend institutions to make room for inconvenient truths,” he said.
The Chief of Staff said the strength of a government should not be measured by how effectively it suppresses dissent, but by its ability to accommodate criticism, probing questions and public concerns without intimidation.
He called for stronger state institutions capable of withstanding political and public pressure while protecting the space necessary for journalists and citizens to express themselves freely.
“A government that fears questions fears accountability. A democracy that stifles protests suffocates progress. Our duty as leaders is to defend the very structures that allow uncomfortable truths to be spoken,” Dr. Debrah stated.
He further stressed that citizens must be allowed to assemble peacefully and ventilate their grievances, describing such freedoms as essential components of Ghana’s constitutional democracy.
His comments come amid ongoing national discussions about press freedom, civic space, accountability and the right to demonstrate.
The remarks have been welcomed by civil society actors and other stakeholders who see them as an affirmation of Ghana’s democratic credentials.
According to them, sustained respect for fundamental freedoms, transparency and constructive engagement between government and citizens remains critical to strengthening democratic governance.
Source: expressnewsghana.com
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