Western North Region
Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, Chief of Sefwi Boinzan and Acting President of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Council, has called on journalists to embrace responsible journalism in the discharge of their duties.
He expressed concern that many journalists focus on sensationalism and fabricated reports, which end up tarnishing reputations and creating unnecessary tension in society. According to him, this growing trend poses a threat to peace and development.
“Journalism, when practiced responsibly, has the power to transform a community, a society, and even an entire nation. But when it is done wrongly, it brings chaos, problems, and even war,” Nana Ahenkan said.
He stressed that careless words from journalists have, in the past, contributed to civil wars in some countries. He therefore urged media practitioners to remain conscious of the power of their words and the impact of their reports.
Nana Ofori Ahenkan explained that the core duty of journalists is to hold leaders accountable. However, he cautioned against doing so through fabrications that damage reputations, adding that credibility and fairness must guide every journalist’s work.
He further advised that journalists should not only highlight negative stories but also report the positive developments happening in society. “When you see what is good, report it. When you see what is bad, report it too. That is the balance that makes journalism credible,” he noted.
Touching on the issue of political affiliation, the chief stated that he sees nothing wrong with journalists joining political parties, as is done in the United States where Democrats and Republicans run their own media outlets. He, however, emphasized that fairness, responsibility, and credibility should not be compromised.
Nana Ofori Ahenkan made these remarks on September 21, 2025, at the Kiafe Conference Hall, where he was the main speaker at the launch of Legendreport.com, a new online news portal established to promote credible journalism in the Western North Region.
