NPP Communicator rejects NDC’s sole claim to Press Freedom gains

A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team for the Chiana-Paga Constituency, Francis Bugase, has challenged attempts by the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) to claim sole credit for Ghana’s improved ranking in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index.

Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Monday, June 8, Bugase described Ghana’s rise to 39th position globally and fourth in Africa as a positive development but argued that the achievement should be viewed as the result of a collective national effort rather than the accomplishment of a single political party or government.

“It is good that Ghana has been ranked highly, and we are happy about that. However, the NDC should not take all the glory for it,” he stated.

Bugase contended that the opposition had contributed significantly to maintaining a peaceful and democratic political environment that enables journalists to carry out their work without undue interference or hostility.

“We are focused on delivering our mandate as an opposition party. We are constructive in our criticism, and that is why you do not see situations that expose journalists to attacks,” he said.

According to him, while the improvement in Ghana’s ranking is commendable, the government cannot claim exclusive responsibility for the gains recorded.

He questioned what specific measures or legislative interventions the current administration had introduced since assuming office in 2025 to directly enhance press freedom and the protection of journalists.

“They should tell me which law they have put in place since coming into power in 2025 to protect journalists. They should tell me what avenues they have created for journalists that did not already exist,” he questioned.

Bugase argued that Ghana’s improved standing in the World Press Freedom Index is the result of the combined efforts of journalists, political actors, civil society organisations, media advocacy groups, and opposition parties working together to strengthen democratic governance and protect freedom of expression.

“Our ranking is good, but they should not, at this particular point, take sole credit for what we are seeing today. It is a collective responsibility of all of us, including the opposition, which is playing its role effectively,” he said.

He further called on all stakeholders to continue collaborating to strengthen Ghana’s democratic institutions and ensure a safe and enabling environment for media practitioners.

“It should be a collective applause that we have all worked together to achieve this,” he added.

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