GJA Commends Government’s Effort in Security Recruitment Amidst Concerns Over Process

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has commended the government for its efforts to address youth unemployment through the expansion of recruitment into the security agencies. However, the association has expressed concerns over the recruitment process, describing it as “neither appropriate nor healthy for our democracy”.

Speaking at a news conference at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra, GJA President Albert Dwumfour highlighted the plight of over 500,000 young people who applied for approximately 5,000 positions in the security services. He questioned the rationale behind charging applicants for recruitment forms, especially when the chances of securing a position are extremely low.

“The Ghana Journalists Association cannot fathom why young and energetic patriots who are willing to serve their country in the various security services are made to pay simply to pick up recruitment forms,” Dwumfour stated.

The GJA is calling for a more transparent and efficient recruitment process, free from bias or unintended exclusion of qualified applicants. The association is also urging authorities to depoliticize the recruitment process, emphasizing that security services owe allegiance to the state, not to any political party or government.

The GJA’s stance on the recruitment exercise is part of its broader efforts to promote media professionalism, defend press freedom, and ensure the welfare and safety of journalists in Ghana. The association has consistently called for the repeal of repressive laws, including sections of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), and the Criminal and Other Offences Act, which are often used to intimidate and muzzle journalists.

In a related development, the GJA has welcomed the decision to pursue an out-of-court settlement in the long-standing legal case involving Latif Idrissu of JoyNews, Multimedia Group, and the Ghana Police Service. The association views this as a constructive step towards resolving the matter, which has been a significant concern for the media fraternity and advocates of press freedom in Ghana.

The GJA has also expressed concerns over recent police invitations and interrogations of journalists, describing them as attempts to create an atmosphere of fear within the media landscape. The association is urging the police to respect the rights of journalists and ensure that investigations are conducted in a fair and transparent manner.

The GJA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled to take place on March 31, 2026, at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra. The meeting will bring together journalists, policymakers, and industry players to discuss issues affecting the media and Ghana’s development.

As Ghana celebrates Heritage Month, the GJA is calling on journalists to continue serving the public with integrity, patriotism, and dedication. The association reaffirms its commitment to strengthening media professionalism, promoting press freedom, and defending the rights of journalists in Ghana.

The GJA’s efforts are aimed at promoting a free and independent media, ensuring that journalists can work without fear of intimidation or persecution. The association’s stance on the security recruitment exercise and press freedom issues demonstrates its commitment to holding those in power accountable and promoting transparency and accountability in governance.