The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfuor, has called on the Electoral Commission (EC) to grant journalists unfettered access to all stages of the voting process and ballot collation during the December 7 elections.

Dwumfuor argued that any restrictions on the media would undermine the transparency, accountability, and public access to information that are essential for credible elections. His comments come in response to a recent directive from the EC, which limits media accreditation to only eight organisations covering collation activities at the constituency level.

At a press briefing on November 28, Dwumfuor emphasized that the EC’s directive contradicted an earlier agreement between the GJA and the electoral body, where it was decided that both the GJA and GIBA would submit proposals for media access. “The EC must give the media unrestricted access to all levels of voting and collation,” he stated.

He warned that restricting media access could lead to the spread of misinformation and undermine the credibility of the election process. “Restricted media houses may rely on unreliable sources, which could compromise the integrity of the election,” Dwumfuor added.

Dwumfuor also expressed appreciation for the EC’s previous cooperation with the GJA, noting that the EC had supported the organisation’s recent training workshops for journalists. He urged the EC to continue its support by ensuring that media access remains unrestricted on election day.

The GJA president concluded by expressing confidence that the EC, which has previously shown a willingness to listen, would consider their concerns and improve mechanisms for media involvement in the upcoming elections.

Source:TheDotNews