Dwumfour Roars on Joy News: “We’ve Lifted GJA, Fought for Journalists, and We’re Not Done Yet!”

Dwumfour Roars on Joy News: “We’ve Lifted GJA, Fought for Journalists, and We’re Not Done Yet!”

With less than a week to the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) elections, President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour stormed Joy News’ flagship program The Probe on Sunday night, firing on all cylinders and defending his track record with facts, passion, and purpose.

In a charged and unapologetic interview, Dwumfour laid bare the accomplishments of what he boldly dubbed “The Legacy Administration,” while slamming critics, defending transparency, and promising even bolder reforms if granted a second term.

Fighting for the Press—Fearlessly

Dwumfour didn’t mince words. He declared that under his leadership, the GJA has reclaimed its voice and authority, standing firmly against attacks on journalists and pushing Ghana up the global press freedom rankings.

“Before I took over, Ghana’s press freedom index had tumbled. Today, we’ve moved from 60th to 50th. That didn’t happen by chance—we engaged the police, political parties, and all stakeholders. We forced action where silence had been the norm.”

He revealed that his administration revived long-dormant assault cases involving journalists Ahmed Suale and Latif Iddrisu, and took legal representation seriously to ensure perpetrators are brought to book.

Calling Out Powerful Abusers

In a move that stunned viewers, Dwumfour named and shamed two prominent political figures—Hon. Farouk Mahama and Hon. Hawa Koomson—for their roles in journalist assaults.

“We blacklisted them! We sent a clear message that no politician is above the safety of our colleagues. The days of looking away are over. We stood up, and Ghana’s press freedom ranking reflects that boldness.”

Journalist Support Fund—More Than Talk

On welfare, Dwumfour touted the establishment of the Journalist Support Fund—a financial cushion for journalists attacked in the line of duty.

“We raised GHS 600,000 in pledges, and secured between GHS 200,000 and GHS 300,000 in actual cash. This fund has already helped colleagues in crisis. And when I’m re-elected, within my first 100 days, I’ll install a trustee board to manage it professionally and sustainably.”

He also revealed that retirees are regularly supported through financial assistance—an unheard-of gesture in previous administrations.

Digitizing the GJA and Opening Doors

Dwumfour was proud to note several innovations under his watch:

• The GJA membership application process has been fully digitized, making it simpler and more appealing.
• Awards nominations are now 100% paperless, reducing bureaucracy and increasing accessibility.
• 864 members are currently in good standing and eligible to vote, thanks to new transparency systems.

“We’ve made the GJA attractive again. People want to join. People want to participate. That’s a sign of growth.”

Hitting Back at Embezzlement Allegations

Dwumfour didn’t shy away from addressing rumors of misappropriation under his leadership.

“Let me be clear: not a single cedi has been misused under my watch. I personally commissioned an independent external audit from 2018 to 2023. The report was submitted to the Emergency General Meeting. That is transparency. That is accountability.”

He also dismantled criticisms surrounding the African Media Convention, which he co-chaired with the Information Minister and 18 state institutions.

“The Local Organising Committee rendered its accounts before being dissolved in November 2024. Everything was above board. These lies won’t stand—we have the records to prove it.”

Confident, Unapologetic, and Ready for Round Two

Dwumfour ended the interview with confidence, passion, and a clear call to action.

“There is no real contest here. The achievements are clear. The GJA is rising. We’ve started a movement to protect and empower every journalist in Ghana. And we are not stopping now.”

As the countdown to June 30, 2025, continues, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour stands firm as the frontrunner, emboldened by his record, energized by support, and determined to secure the legacy of a reformed and revitalized GJA.