By Daniel Bampoe
The Ghana Journalists Association, GJA, has voiced its strong opposition to the proposed Misinformation, Disinformation, Hate Speech and Publication of Offensive Materials Bill (MDHI Bill) 2025, describing it as a potential threat to freedom of expression and media independence.
While acknowledging the dangers of misinformation and hate speech, the GJA argued that the bill, as currently drafted, lacked transparency and stakeholder consultation. “A law that may affect press freedom should never be conceived or enacted behind closed doors or under pressure of time,” Dwumfour declared.
The GJA demands:
1. An extension of the consultation deadline by at least three months;
2. Nationwide stakeholder forums involving media associations, civil society, academia, and legal experts;
3. A joint technical working group to harmonize stakeholder input; and
4. Explicit safeguards to prevent the misuse of the bill for censorship.
The Association maintained that while ethical journalism must counter fake news and hate speech, any legal framework must uphold Ghana’s constitutional freedoms and the public’s right to know.
Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill 2025 Raises Alarm
The GJA also raised red flags over the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill 2025, warning that its vague definitions and expanded powers for the Cyber Security Authority (CSA) could be weaponized against journalists.
The Association said provisions that allow for broad investigatory and prosecutorial powers could expose journalists’ sources, enable unwarranted surveillance, and criminalize legitimate reporting.
“When cyber offences are vaguely defined, journalists cannot determine what might trigger penalties — and that creates a chilling effect,” Dwumfour cautioned.
He urged the government to hold extensive consultations with the media and civil society before the bill is passed, noting that similar laws in other African countries have been used to silence journalists.
Global Theme: AI-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence
This year’s global theme, “Chat GBV: Raising Awareness on AI-facilitated Gender-Based Violence against Women Journalists,” spotlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence in online harassment.
The GJA announced a partnership with women journalists’ groups worldwide to collect data on technology-facilitated gender-based violence and review policies to enhance the protection of women in the media.
Dwumfour called for a united front among government agencies, media owners, and digital platforms to enhance digital literacy and establish a safe space for journalists, especially women, to work freely without fear.
29th GJA Media Awards Heads to Manhyia Palace
The GJA President also announced preparations for the 29th GJA Media Awards, scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi.
The event, themed “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” will be hosted by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, with President John Mahama as Special Guest of Honour.
Over 35 outstanding journalists will be honoured for excellence and professionalism in the past year.
Dwumfour urged all journalists to participate in what he described as a “historic celebration of media excellence beyond Accra.”
