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Journalistic Integrity on Trial: Dispelling Falsehoods and Urging Government Action in the Volta Region

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By Christian Afetorgbor

A viral video in Ewe features a lady accusing Honorable Abla Dzifa Gomashie of neglecting to follow up on an approved budget for a sea defense project in her constituency during Nana Addo’s regime . First and foremost, it is imperative to address the blatant inaccuracies presented by the lady in the viral video. Her statements against Honorable Abla Dzifa Gomashie are not only misleading but also a disservice to the principles of ethical journalism. If she wishes to be taken seriously, she must adhere to the core tenets of her profession: accuracy, fairness, and integrity.

To set the record straight, it is well-documented that the NPP administration neglected the sea defense project initiated by John Dramani Mahama for eight long years. This abandonment is not a matter of opinion but a fact that can be corroborated by historical records and public statements. For instance, Mathew Opoku Prempeh (NAPO) as a Vice Presidential candidate declared that if the Nana Addo government had allocated funds for the sea defense project, there would have been protests against it. Furthermore, there was no budgetary provision for sea defense throughout the entire tenure of Nana Addo’s administration. This lack of financial commitment extended to road construction in the Volta region, where initial budgetary allocation was missing, further alienating its citizens and reinforcing the perception that the government was indifferent to their needs. Nana Addo himself did not visit during disasters related to surges in sea level or the major devastation caused by the Volta River dam spillage during his tenure in office. Yes, he was a no-show.

The lady’s assertions appear to be politically tainted and grossly lack factual basis. This is a clear example of irresponsible journalism. It is incumbent upon her to present verifiable evidence to support her claims or to refrain from making unfounded accusations in the future. The role of the media is to inform and educate the public, not to propagate falsehoods and sow discord.

In light of the dire circumstances as a result of the current sea surges, we urge the Mahama administration to take decisive action to address the issue once and for all. We understand that the construction of a sea defense wall is a complex and costly endeavor that requires careful planning and substantial resources. It is not a project that can be expedited without considering other national priorities. However, the government must demonstrate its commitment to the welfare of the Volta region, especially the citizens of Ketu South, by allocating the necessary funds and ensuring that the project is completed in a timely manner.

In conclusion, the lady presenter must uphold the ethics of journalism if she wishes to maintain her credibility. The government, on the other hand, must take concrete steps to address the challenges faced by the Volta region and restore the confidence of its citizens. The onus is on all stakeholders to work together in the best interest of the people and to ensure that truth and justice prevail.

Source: Christian Afetorgbor

2 Comments

  1. Charles Neequaye

    Ignorance can be blissful, but does this lady even understand how budgets are approved and implemented? Nowadays, anyone can just hop on social media and spout nonsense.

  2. The lady is not a journalist. She is bellyache, a grouser. No need to attack her.