CONTINGENTS from the army, police and Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) yesterday joined members of the Ghana Journalists Association in the Volta Region (Volta GJA) to take part in a route march on the principal streets of Ho, as part of activities marking World Press Freedom Day.
The Volta Regional Minister, Dr Archibald Yao Letsa and his deputy, Rev. Johnson Avuletey and some heads of department also took part in the march, holding the public in admiration.
This was later followed by a symposium at the Volta Press Centre on: “Security – Media Relation and Election 2020.”
The Volta Regional Police Commander, DCOP E. Oduro Kwateng gave the assurance that the police would work hand-in-hand with the media for peaceful elections next year.
He said there was no cause for alarm in next year’s elections since the safety of journalists and the electorates were guaranteed, with no prelude whatsoever suggesting a possible chaos.
On his part, Second Lieutenant Jones Amoako who represented the 66 Artillery Regiment in Ho, entreated the media not to escalate security concerns which were already in the hands of the security agencies during the elections.
Assistant Divisional Officer of the GNFS and the Ho Municipal Fire Commander, ADO Stephen Kutor stated that there were definitely bright prospects for peaceful elections in 2020.
“Ghana has held peaceful election for many years and the trend will continue,” he maintained.
Meanwhile, Mr S. K. Dzokoto, a retired and seasoned journalist, made it clear that the safety of media personnel was critical for transparent elections.
Therefore, he said, it was necessary for officials of the Electoral Commission to give ample recognition to the role of the journalists at the polling station.
Dr Archibald Yao Letsa thanked the media in the Volta Region for their dedication to the peace and development of the region, at all times.
“We will consolidate the cordial relation between the Volta Regional Coordinating Council and the media to benefit all and sundry,” he added.
The chairman of the Volta GJA, Mr Anthony Bells Kafui Kanyi, expressed gratitude to the various corporate bodies and individuals who supported the association to celebrate the event on a grand and successful note.
Pix: Members of Volta GJA taking part in the route march. Among them are Dr Letsa (middle, in cap) and his deputy, Rev. Avuletey (extreme right).
FROM ALBERTO MARIO NORETTI, HO
