GAF, Defence Press Corp in a group photograph
FORMER DIRECTOR General of the Department of Public Relations (DPR) of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), Brigadier General Eric Aggrey-Quashie (rtd), has urged journalists to be mindful of their reporting on matters relating to national security and operationalisation of the military, as it has the tendency of causing tension in the country.
Speaking during a media engagement with members of the Defence Press Corp, Brig. Gen. Aggrey-Quashie (rtd) called on journalists to develop security culture in their line of reporting, indicating, “Being aware of how you use words and actions in reporting on potential security vulnerabilities or threats might impact national security.”
Brig. Gen. Aggrey-Quashie (rtd) also advised journalists to avoid spreading unverified or sensitive information that could aid terrorists or compromise security operations, saying, “when filing reports, do consider the potential consequences of the reporting on the public and security personnel. Let’s try and protect the public from panic or harm.”
The Chief of Staff at the General Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Joshua Lartei Mensah–Larkai, underscored the importance of a strong and responsible partnership between the military and the media, particularly in light of emerging security threats within the sub-region.
According to Air Vice Marshal Mensah-Larkai, the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, influencing national discourse and supporting security operations, particularly in the digital age.
“The relationship between the Ghana Armed Forces and the media, especially the Defense Press Corps, must rest on trust, mutual respect and a shared sense of purpose,” he said.
The Acting Director-General of the Department of Public Relations, Captain (Ghana Navy) Veronica Adzo Arhin, reiterated the indispensable role of communication in national development and security management. She noted that effective communication is founded on trust and credibility rather than mere dissemination of information.
Speaking on the relevance of the workshop, she indicated that it creates the opportunity for both the military and the media to reflect on the challenges and work together for transparency, professionalism and national unity.
The Deputy Director Protocol of the Department of Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Belinda Amarteifio, in a presentation, highlighted the strategic importance of military-media relations in Ghana, noting its critical role in national security, public confidence and institutional legitimacy.
BY Prince Fiifi Yorke