GJA Warns Cybersecurity Bill Could Threaten Press Freedom
Association urges public consultation to balance national security with media rights
- The Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, could threaten press freedom and free expression if passed without revisions
- The GJA urges Parliament to engage journalists, civil society, and technology experts before finalizing the bill
- The association emphasizes protecting media rights to maintain accountability, transparency, and democracy in Ghana
The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, has raised concerns that parts of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, could undermine press freedom and free expression if enacted without revisions.
Speaking to the media on Monday, November 3, to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Mr. Dwumfuor said that while strengthening Ghana’s cybersecurity is important, amendments must protect journalists’ and citizens’ constitutional rights.
“We call for broad engagement, public consultation, and education to fine-tune the bill so that every affected sector can contribute in the public interest,” he said.
He warned lawmakers against rushing the amendment process, cautioning that poorly crafted changes could worsen the cyber landscape rather than improve it.
Highlighting the media’s vital role in Ghanaian democracy, Mr. Dwumfuor stressed that attempts to curb press freedom under the guise of cybersecurity reforms would threaten accountability and transparency.
“The GJA and the media will always defend these guaranteed rights and ensure they are not taken from us,” he affirmed.
He urged Parliament to consult journalists, digital rights advocates, civil society, and technology experts to ensure the bill promotes responsible digital practices without compromising fundamental freedoms.
While the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill aims to tackle emerging online threats, enhance regulatory oversight, and align Ghana with global best practices, critics—including some media groups, civil society organisations, and the parliamentary minority—have raised concerns over potential overreach and misuse against journalists and government critics.
