Government does not expect favourable headlines from media – Kwakye Ofosu

The government has reaffirmed its commitment to media freedom, saying it does not expect favourable headlines from journalists as a condition for engagement with the media. Speaking on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, said the media must be free to question government, scrutinise public expenditure, investigate public institutions and examine decisions taken by public officials. He said the government recognises that a democratic administration must be prepared to respond to difficult questions and accept legitimate criticism. “We do not expect favourable headlines as a condition for engagement, nor do we expect journalists to surrender their editorial independence in the name of partnership. Indeed, a government that is confident in its democratic credentials must be prepared to answer difficult questions and accept legitimate criticism,” he stated.