–BY Daniel Bampoe
Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, incumbent President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has reaffirmed his commitment to defending media freedom and improving the welfare of journalists as he formally declares his bid for a second term in the Association’s upcoming elections.
Speaking during a regional engagement with members of the GJA in Techiman, Bono East Region, Mr. Dwumfour highlighted the strides made under his leadership and pledged to consolidate gains if given a renewed mandate.
The meeting formed part of a nationwide tour to interact with journalists, address their concerns, and galvanize support ahead of the GJA elections set for June 28, 2025.
Defending Press Freedom Amid Challenges
Albert Dwumfour emphasized that the media remains a crucial pillar in Ghana’s democratic architecture and reiterated his resolve to continue advocating for press freedom in an increasingly complex environment.
He applauded journalists across the country for their resilience in the face of economic hardship, low remuneration, and increasing threats to their safety and professional independence.
“As president, I have always stood for the protection of journalists and the expansion of press freedom. If re-elected, I will deepen that commitment, ensuring that no journalist is left behind, especially those in underserved regions,” he stated.
Journalist Welfare, Structural Reforms in Focus
One of the key priorities for Mr. Dwumfour’s second-term agenda is the improvement of working conditions for journalists.
He explained that the low salaries and poor employment terms many media professionals face, which he said undermines journalistic integrity and morale.
In a bid to make the GJA more inclusive and accessible, his tenure saw the creation of new regional chapters, including the Bono East Chapter, which now operates independently of the erstwhile Brong Ahafo region.
The acting Bono East GJA Regional President, Rev. Frederick Antwi, commended the national executives for this structural shift, noting that it would enhance coordination and support for local journalists.
Support from Key Figures
Albert Dwumfour’s re-election campaign has already received endorsements from prominent media figures.
Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, a respected GJA member and anti-galamsey advocate, recently declared his support in a social media post.
Ken Ashigbey praised Dwumfour’s leadership as “transformative” and cited his tireless defense of journalists’ rights as a reason for backing his bid.
“I had my reservations when he first contested, but I’ve seen his actions and advocacy. I now fully endorse Albert Dwumfour as a beacon of hope and a defender of our freedoms,” Ashigbey stated.
The Road to June 28 Elections
Albert Dwumfour is one of 42 candidates cleared by the GJA Elections Committee to contest for various national and regional positions.
The elections, which were initially slated for June 30, have been rescheduled to June 28 to accommodate logistical adjustments.
However, as campaigning intensifies, Albert Dwumfour is banking on his record: decentralizing the association’s structure, engaging consistently with stakeholders, and defending the profession’s integrity.
With the endorsement of regional members and national figures, his path to re-election is gaining momentum — though other candidates are expected to present strong challenges in the days ahead.
The GJA election is widely seen as a litmus test for the future of journalism in Ghana, coming at a time when global conversations around media independence, safety, and digital transformation continue to shape the future of the profession.
