The Media Research Institute (MRi) has urged the government to avoid using legislation as a tool to suppress media freedoms, warning that Ghana must protect recent gains made in press freedom.
In a statement marking the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, the institute said authorities must resist any attempt to weaponise laws in ways that could criminalise journalism and silence critical voices.
The statement, signed by Dr Daniel Nkrumah and made available to the Ghana News Agency in Dormaa-Ahenkro, stressed that Ghana still has significant work to do despite recent progress on global press freedom rankings.
“The media has a lot to do as Ghana is not yet free from press freedom indictments,” the statement noted.
The institute also called on journalists and media practitioners to uphold ethical standards and avoid actions that could undermine public trust in the profession.
According to MRi, this year’s theme for World Press Freedom Day — “Shaping a Future of Peace” — highlights the important role responsible journalism can play in promoting peace, addressing conflict and shaping public discourse.
The organisation noted that Ghana made significant progress on the 2026 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders, climbing from 52nd position in 2025 to 39th globally this year.
It added that Ghana also improved its ranking in Africa, moving to sixth position on the continent.
While commending stakeholders for contributing to the improvement, the institute said Ghana has the potential to perform even better and maintain its reputation as a leader in democratic governance and media freedom in Africa.
MRi urged both government institutions and media organisations to continue working together to strengthen press freedom and protect democratic accountability.
