The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, has urged Ghanaian journalists to hold public officials accountable and guard against the spread of misinformation and hate speech.

He made the call at the 30th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards held at the La Palm Royal Beach Hotel in Accra on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Mr Bagbin described power as “a monster that must be properly managed” and commended journalists for investigations into illegal mining, corruption, human rights abuses and child abuse in schools.

He cautioned journalists against abusing their freedom to publish false information and damage reputations, urging them to remain “watchdogs and not lapdogs”.

He also expressed concern about the growing influence of social media, warning that anonymity and unverified commentary were being used to fuel ethnic tensions, polarise communities and attack public figures.

He described such practices as “a direct assault on the peace, stability and mutual respect” that hold the country together.

The Speaker said journalists had a responsibility to counter hate speech and provide the public with verified information, particularly in an era when smartphone users could easily become broadcasters.

On Parliament’s relationship with the media, Mr Bagbin assured journalists that the House remained open to facilitate access to information and professional coverage.

He urged reporters to move beyond sensational political exchanges and explain the substance of legislation and the implications of public policies for ordinary Ghanaians.

He also reiterated Parliament’s willingness to work with the GJA and other stakeholders on a Private Member’s Bill to improve the working conditions of journalists.

Mr Bagbin, however, stressed that protecting journalists required collective responsibility from law enforcement agencies, political actors, media owners, traditional authorities and the public.

Congratulating nominees and award winners, he urged journalists to uphold professional integrity and help protect the country’s democratic values.

He also commended the GJA, led by its president, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, for sustaining the awards and advocating the safety, welfare and professional development of journalists.

The ceremony was attended by President John Dramani Mahama, the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, and Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie.

Bagbin urges journalists to be watchdogs, cautions against hate speech

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