GJA Polls Will Be Transparent and Credible – Committee Chair

Peter Martey Agbeko, Chairman of the Elections Committee of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), has reiterated the committee’s unwavering commitment to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections as the association gears up for its national and regional polls.

In a public statement released on Tuesday, June 24, Mr. Agbeko assured members of the association and the general public that the elections would be carried out with the highest level of professionalism and integrity. He emphasized that the committee was working closely with a technical advisor from the Electoral Commission of Ghana to ensure the process is efficient and credible.

“With the support of my dedicated committee members and under the expert guidance of our Electoral Commission advisor, we are fully committed to organizing an election that reflects democratic values and global best practices,” Mr. Agbeko stated.

He highlighted that the committee has been meticulous in its preparations, prioritizing fairness, accountability, and transparency at every stage of the process. He said the goal is to safeguard the credibility of the GJA and protect its democratic traditions.

However, Mr. Agbeko did not shy away from addressing criticisms and doubts raised by some individuals. He expressed concern over efforts by certain factions to cast aspersions on the electoral process without substantiating their claims. While reaffirming the committee’s openness to genuine feedback, he called out what he described as attempts to tarnish the process through baseless accusations.

“It is regrettable when individuals impose their own expectations on the process and try to sow doubt without presenting credible evidence. Constructive concerns are welcome and will be given due consideration, but unfounded allegations only serve to undermine the trust we are working so hard to build,” he stressed.

On the issue of proxy voting—which has been a source of debate—Mr. Agbeko clarified that it is a legitimate and recognized feature of contemporary electoral systems worldwide. He assured that all necessary measures have been put in place to ensure the practice is not abused, maintaining that the committee is alert to any loopholes and will act swiftly to address them.

Recalling the committee’s resilience in the face of past challenges, Mr. Agbeko cited a previous situation where, despite unexpected difficulties, the elections were conducted smoothly and successfully. “This experience demonstrates our dedication and ability to deliver even under pressure,” he said.

As anticipation builds and campaigning intensifies ahead of the GJA elections, Mr. Agbeko affirmed his continued leadership and personal commitment to steering the process to its conclusion.

“I’m not stepping aside. I am fully committed to seeing this election through, professionally and faithfully, to the benefit of our Association and in service to democratic principles,” he declared.

He also announced that a stakeholder engagement meeting would be held later that evening, bringing together all contesting candidates, members of the Elections Committee, and the Electoral Commission’s Technical Advisor. The forum aims to foster dialogue, strengthen transparency, and reinforce unity among stakeholders as the association enters the final stretch of its electoral journey.

The GJA, as a cornerstone of Ghana’s media landscape, plays a pivotal role in advocating press freedom, ethical journalism, and professional development. With this election, members will select new leaders to guide the Association’s future direction, making the credibility of the process even more crucial.

As such, Mr. Agbeko’s assurance of a credible and transparent process will go a long way to reassure stakeholders of the Elections Committee’s impartiality and dedication to upholding the Association’s democratic values.