The Dean of the Defence Press Corps, Mr. Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey, has called on media practitioners across the country to exercise utmost responsibility and professionalism when reporting on security matters, particularly those concerning the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF).
He warned that excessive negative reportage about the military could have dire consequences for national security and public confidence.
Speaking at the 2025 Defence Press Corps Annual Fun Games and End-of-Year Get-Together held at the 5th Infantry Battalion Sports Complex in Burma Camp, Accra, Mr. Gold-Alorgbey emphasized that although journalists have the constitutional right to report without undue interference, they must remain conscious of the sensitive role the military plays in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity.
“Can you imagine waking up one morning to hear in the news that the Ghana Armed Forces has become weak, that anyone can attack a soldier or officer in Ghana without consequences? What signal would we be sending to terrorists or enemies seeking to destabilize our country?” he questioned.
The Dean of the Defence Press Corps, Mr. Joseph Armstrong Gold-Alorgbey
He stressed that stories about the Armed Forces cannot be treated as everyday reporting because the image and dignity of the military serve as a protective shield for the nation.
“The very day the Ghana Armed Forces loses its name, respect, and credibility due to negativity in the media, Ghana will be a nation without a backbone. Let us safeguard the core mandate of our military and maintain the fear, honor, and respect associated with the uniform,” he added.
Representing the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), the Deputy Chief Staff Officer for Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, Commodore Roger Bagoniah, expressed deep appreciation to the Defence Press Corps for organizing the annual engagement, describing it as a vital initiative that bridges the gap between security agencies and the public.
Delivering his speech on behalf of the CNS, he assured the media of continued support from the Ghana Navy and the Armed Forces in fostering unity, transparency, and cordial relationships among soldiers, officers, and civilians.
Commodore Bagoniah also encouraged journalists to adopt positive and solution-oriented reporting styles that help reduce unnecessary tension and contribute to national development.
“The media remains a key stakeholder in building a peaceful and progressive Ghana. Let us work together in strengthening national cohesion,” he said.
He further congratulated the Defence Press Corps for successfully organizing the event and urged that such interactions be sustained.
This year’s Defence Press Corps Fun Games brought together teams from the Presidential Press Corps, Parliamentary Press Corps, Bloggers Association, and the host Defence Press Corps to compete in a series of exciting activities designed to promote teamwork and physical fitness.
Deputy Chief Staff Officer for Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters, Commodore Roger Bagoniah
Fun-filled events included: Lime and Spoon Race, Sack Race, Ludo and Draft, Eating Competition, Musical Chairs, Dean’s Penalty Shoot-Out,Football Match, among others.
After fierce but friendly competition, the Defence Press Corps emerged overall champions.
The Presidential Press Corps placed second after securing a 1–0 victory against the Defence Press Corps in the football match while the Bloggers team came third. The Parliamentary Press Corps finished in fourth position.
President of Online Publishers Association of Ghana (OPAG) Michae Petit Mawugbe (Efo Mawugbe) who is a member of the Defence Press Corps was there to grace the ocassion
The event concluded with a social gathering where journalists and military personnel networked, celebrated the year’s achievementswith lots of food and drinks, and reinforced the importance of partnership for national peace and security.
source:www.senaradioonline.com
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