Youth for Media Freedom (YMF), a prominent media advocacy organization, has called on the National Executive Council of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to immediately suspend and investigate its president, Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour. The group accuses Mr. Dwumfour of blackmail, coercion, and abuse of power.
In a statement released on Saturday, YMF’s Executive Director, Andrew Hayford, alleged that Mr. Dwumfour exploited sensitive information about high-profile individuals, including government officials and business leaders, for personal gain. YMF argues that such actions compromise the integrity of Ghana’s media and erode public trust in the GJA.
The advocacy group claims Mr. Dwumfour has used confidential information as leverage, threatening individuals with negative media coverage unless they complied with his demands. YMF described these actions as a “severe abuse of office,” undermining the GJA’s role in upholding press freedom and ethical journalism.
“The media’s role is to amplify the voices of the marginalized, not to serve as a tool for coercion or personal vendettas,” the group stated in its petition.
YMF further criticized Mr. Dwumfour’s leadership, citing mismanagement that has allegedly tarnished the GJA’s reputation. The group referenced a May 2024 notice from the Office of the Registrar of Companies (ORC) warning of the GJA’s possible delisting for failing to meet statutory obligations, including the submission of annual financial reports.
“Such administrative lapses raise serious concerns about Mr. Dwumfour’s ability to lead effectively,” YMF argued.
The petition also noted discrepancies between Mr. Dwumfour’s global advocacy and his domestic leadership. Despite representing journalists’ rights at international forums, such as a recent UNESCO and African Union event in Ethiopia, YMF accused him of failing to uphold transparency and accountability within the GJA.
“Leaders advocating for press freedom must embody those principles through ethical and effective governance,” the group asserted.
YMF has called for Mr. Dwumfour’s suspension and urged the formation of an independent committee to investigate the allegations. The group recommended the inclusion of civil society leaders, legal experts, and seasoned journalists to ensure impartiality.
“This investigation must be transparent, with regular public updates to maintain its credibility,” YMF emphasized.
With the 2024 general elections nearing, YMF warned that unethical practices within the GJA could undermine electoral integrity and public confidence in democratic processes.
“At this critical juncture, key institutions like the GJA must remain above reproach,” the group cautioned.
YMF has given the GJA an ultimatum to take swift action or face a public campaign advocating for Mr. Dwumfour’s removal.
“The Ghanaian public deserves a media association rooted in ethical standards,” concluded Mr. Hayford.
