Deputy Coordinator of the National Security Council Secretariat, Elizabeth Yankah, has called for a renewed partnership between the media and security agencies, urging both sides to replace suspicion with collaboration to protect Ghana’s peace.
Speaking at a strategic engagement with journalists, editors, and public relations heads of security agencies, she acknowledged a history of tension between the two groups.
“For long, the relationship between state security and the media has been marked by mutual suspicion.
“There has been acrimony too many instances when we have worked against each other instead of collaborating for the benefit of Ghana,” she noted.
Ms. Yankah stressed that evolving security threats, particularly misinformation, require urgent cooperation, warning that false narratives now pose a serious danger to national stability.
- “Today, a single manipulated video can cause more damage to our stability than a physical attack.”
She pointed to both global and local examples to underline the risks of unchecked misinformation.
“A fake story on WhatsApp can set two communities against each other faster than any weapon,” she noted.
Referencing conflicts within Ghana, she noted how misinformation has worsened tensions in areas such as Bawku and Nkwanta, deepening divisions and undermining trust.
Despite Ghana’s reputation as a peaceful nation, she cautioned against complacency.
“Ghana is a beacon of peace in West Africa, but this peace is not guaranteed. It must be protected every single day.”
Ms. Yankah emphasized that national security is a shared responsibility and highlighted the critical role of the media in shaping public understanding.
“You are not bystanders. You are a very important partner the nation depends on. When you verify before you publish, you protect,” she said.
To strengthen cooperation, she proposed practical steps including direct verification channels between journalists and security agencies, and a unified communication approach during crises.
“You should never have to guess whether a piece of security information is true… You should be able to check before you publish.”
She also called for restraint and diligence in reporting sensitive issues.
“A single false report can endanger livEs It can turn a peaceful protest into a riot.”
Clarifying concerns about press freedom, Ms. Yankah insisted the initiative is not about censorship.
“This is not about regulating the media… We only urge the mainstreaming of responsibility in the exercise of our liberties.”
She further assured that security agencies would improve their own communication practices.
“We will speak early. We will speak clearly. And we will speak together.”
Concluding, she underscored the need for trust between both sides, anchored on the event’s theme.
“Truth is what you chase every day. Trust is what we must build between us. Without trust, truth does not travel.”
The engagement marks a significant step toward rebuilding trust and fostering a coordinated approach between Ghana’s media and security institutions in addressing emerging threats.
