The National Media Commission (NMC) has established a six-member media advisory committee in the Ashanti Region to promote responsible journalism and protect journalists during the 2024 general elections.

The committee, chaired by former NMC Chairman Paul Adu-Gyamfi, will combat misinformation and disinformation, and ensure safe and free media practices.

Other members include Kwame Adinkra, Olivia Owusu Bannor, Kingsly Elijah Hope, Jonathan Frimpong, and Isaac Frimpong.

NMC Executive Director George Sarpong emphasized the need for regional oversight, citing the spread of media across the country.

He stated that the committee will harness local networks’ integrity and expertise to protect journalists by connecting them with security agencies, the electoral commission, local chiefs, and religious leaders.

The committee is expected to work with media houses to combat disinformation, particularly during the elections.

NMC Chairman Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo appealed to journalists not to allow themselves to be used by politicians for disinformation and misinformation.

“When any story breaks, particularly in relation to this year’s election, let no journalist allow themselves to be misused by any politician for political purposes,” he said.

Former Ghana Bar Association President Paul Adu-Gyamfi, chairman of the Ashanti Regional Media Advisory Committee, called on the media to be more accountable on issues of national interest. “There are instances where wide coverage is given, but nothing is heard about it again. We need a follow-up… We want you to follow cases from the time you break the news to the final determination of the case,” he pleaded.