Skip to content

Media urged to balance freedom and responsibility in security reporting

A fun-filled media competition turned serious as leaders warned: reckless security coverage could weaken Ghana’s defenses. How should journalists respond?

In this image in the center there is one news paper, and some text is written in that newspaper.
In this image in the center there is one news paper, and some text is written in that newspaper.

Media urged to balance freedom and responsibility in security reporting

Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey, Dean of the DPC, used the occasion to call for responsible reporting on the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF). He warned that negative media coverage could weaken public trust and threaten national security.

The Fun Games brought together journalists from different press groups in a series of light-hearted competitions. Teams took part in lime-and-spoon races, sack races, ludo, draughts, and an eating contest. The Defence Press Corps secured first place, while the Presidential Press Corps, led by an unnamed representative, finished as runners-up.

During the closing remarks, Gold-Alorgbey addressed concerns about media portrayals of the military. He argued that stories depicting the Armed Forces as weak or vulnerable could encourage hostile forces seeking to destabilise Ghana. While acknowledging the media’s right to free expression, he stressed the need to recognise the military’s role in protecting the country’s borders.

Commodore Roger Bagoniah, Deputy Chief Staff Officer for Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, echoed these sentiments. He commended the DPC for hosting the event, calling it a key platform for fostering cooperation between the military and press. Bagoniah also urged journalists to focus on constructive reporting that eases tensions and supports national development.

Gold-Alorgbey reinforced the importance of safeguarding the military’s reputation. He described the institution as a cornerstone of national stability and warned that persistent negative coverage could erode public confidence.

The Defence Press Corps took the top prize in the Fun Games, reinforcing camaraderie among media groups. Meanwhile, military and press leaders emphasised the need for balanced security reporting. They warned that irresponsible coverage could undermine public trust and create risks for national stability.

Read also:

Latest