The government has pledged its support to assist the Private Newspapers and Online Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) to secure a permanent office space, as part of broader efforts to strengthen Ghana’s media institutions and safeguard democratic governance.
The assurance was given by Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during an engagement with journalists and media stakeholders at a workshop in Ada, where he addressed long-standing challenges confronting the media, and concerns over the safety and professional treatment of journalists.
According to the minister, the government recognises the critical role PRINPAG continues to play in sustaining the democratic culture since 1992 and is committed to deepening cooperation with the association to ensure a resilient and independent media ecosystem.
He described the media landscape as one of the most vibrant globally, stressing that its survival and growth require institutional stability, including access to adequate working infrastructure.
Kwakye Ofosu noted that discussions are ongoing to support PRINPAG’s efforts to acquire a permanent office, acknowledging that previous attempts had faced setbacks due to land administration and documentation challenges.
He assured the association that once these bottlenecks are resolved, government agencies would be willing to facilitate the process to ensure PRINPAG secures a suitable space to operate effectively.
Beyond institutional support, the minister addressed growing concerns over the treatment of journalists, citing recent controversial incidents involving media practitioners.
He expressed the government’s strong disapproval of confrontations between journalists and state actors, particularly within the security services, where journalists are sometimes perceived as nuisances rather than accountability partners.
Describing such conduct as “condemnable and deplorable,” Kwakye Ofosu revealed that President Mahama has directed him to engage the leadership of the security agencies to organise structured forums bringing together senior media practitioners and security officials.
The aim, he said, is to reorient state actors on the constitutional role of the media, promote mutual respect, and reduce incidents of intimidation and harassment.
He emphasised that while disciplinary action against offending officers is sometimes necessary, punishment alone is insufficient without education and behavioural change.
According to him, sustainable reform requires understanding and acceptance of the media’s role in a democratic society.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to re-examining support mechanisms such as the Media Development Fund, noting that while past efforts faced challenges, the core idea of supporting journalism remains relevant and achievable through transparent stakeholder engagement.
Concluding his address, Kwakye Ofosu reaffirmed the government’s readiness to work with PRINPAG and the wider media fraternity to strengthen democratic governance, protect press freedom, and build resilient institutions.
He stressed that a strong media, a united political class, and respectful state-media relations remain essential pillars for stability and progress.
