GJA's stand against obnoxious laws not negotiable ? Gifty

Accra (Greater Accra) - Mrs Gifty Afieyi-Dadzie, President of the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA), said in Accra on Thursday that their stand against the repeal of all obnoxious laws inimical to the practice of journalism in the country is not negotiable.

Speaking at the end of a four-day seminar on "Communication and Good Governance; the role of the media technician", Mrs Affenyi-Dadzie said this year represents a critical period in Ghana's search for durable democracy. "The December eight presidential and parliamentary elections will test the readiness of the media to contribute to democracy and good governance."

Mrs. Afieyi-Dadzie said journalist have very crucial roles to play to strengthen democratic practice in their respective countries. She said what people in the media must do is to play their role effectively to contribute to quality national debate and encourage dialogue and tolerance.

She exhorted the media to show circumspection and take responsibility for their acts, saying, "any omission or commissions could be costly." "It does the image of the media no good to be accused of bias or lack of credibility. For once that happens, we cease to have any meaningful impact on national development efforts.

"But the essence of the media is to have a role to play in shaping public policy and arousing the consciousness of our people." The seminar jointly organised by the West African Journalists Association (WAJA) and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is the third in a series to equip media practitioners to effectively contribute to governance in the sub-region.

About 30 media technicians, sub-editors, desktop personnel and other media personnel from Ghana, Liberia and the Gambia attended. Editors and reporters attended the first two, held in Accra and Cotonou respectively.