Founder of Class Media Group (CMG), Alhaji Seidu Agongo, has said trust is the ultimate test for the media and the foundation upon which societies prosper.
Speaking at the official launch of Accra TV, the newest addition to the Class Media Group family, Alhaji Agongo said in an era saturated with information, the real challenge facing Ghanaians and the world is not access to information, but determining what is credible, transparent and true.
“Trust is the foundation of every successful relationship, from family through community to society,” he told distinguished guests, partners and staff at the launch ceremony.
Alhaji Agongo expressed profound gratitude to the staff and audience of Class Media Group, whose love, hard work, dedication and belief, he said, have kept the group in business through turbulent and calm waters.
Reflecting on the theme, “Trust is our true test,” the businessman noted that trust has come under extreme strain in recent times, with citizens questioning the motives of leaders, and employers and employees doubting each other.
He stressed that the media plays a crucial role as the bridge between institutions and the people, and between facts and public understanding, but warned that such a bridge can only stand if it is built on trust.
“Trust cannot be demanded. Trust gotten through demands is unsustainable. Rather, it must be earned,” Alhaji Agongo emphasized.
According to him, trust is earned through accuracy, fairness, consistency and accountability – by verifying before publishing, informing rather than inflaming, and having the courage to correct errors.
“At Class Media Group, our most valuable asset has not been our studios, cameras or transmitters. Our most valuable asset has been and will continue to be our credibility,” he stated.
He assured stakeholders, especially viewers and audiences, that Accra TV will be a trusted platform for facts, dialogue and accountability – a platform that listens, informs and serves.
Alhaji Agongo, who described himself as a businessman who has seen almost all cycles of life and entrepreneurship, said the real litmus test of trust is not what an organization does when things are easy, but what it does when transparency is difficult.
“When trust grows, societies prosper, businesses succeed, and democracy flourishes,” he added.
The launch of Accra TV expands the portfolio of Class Media Group, which already operates Class FM, Accra FM, and other platforms.
Alhaji Agongo concluded by calling on all stakeholders to join in building a culture of trust.
“Long live Class Media Group, long live our dear Ghana,” he said.
