Acting Chief Justice Paul Baffoe-Bonnie has made a passionate call to the Ghanaian media to take a leading role in safeguarding the nation’s peace, security and environment.

He said the media must use its platforms to expose corruption, illegal mining, and all forms of social injustice that threaten Ghana’s future.

Delivering an address at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards in Kumasi, Justice Baffoe-Bonnie described the media as a vital bridge between the governors and the governed, and a cornerstone in preserving democracy and the moral conscience of the nation.

He lamented the devastating impact of illegal mining (galamsey) on Ghana’s rivers, forests and farmlands, describing it as “a moral struggle for the soul of our nation” rather than merely an environmental campaign.

The Acting Chief Justice cautioned that any nation that loses its sense of responsibility towards its children is at a risk of losing its future.

He, therefore, underscored the urgent need for collaboration between the executive, legislature, judiciary, civil society, and the media to confront environmental degradation and uphold the rule of law.

According to him, “when the media operates with responsibility, the judiciary with impartiality, and the executive with transparency, the foundation of our democracy will remain firm.”

Justice Baffoe-Bonnie commended journalists who continue to risk their lives to expose corruption and environmental crimes, citing investigative journalist Erastus Asare Donkor as an example of courage and patriotism in unveiling the destruction of Ghana’s natural resources.

He urged the media to remain steadfast in speaking truth to power, even when the truth is uncomfortable.

He called for a renewed awakening among journalists to make their platforms sanctuaries of truth and instruments of peace.

“Let every newsroom become a sanctuary of truth, every camera a mirror of conscience, and every microphone the trumpet of peace,” he stated.

The 29th GJA Media Awards, held under the theme “Safeguarding Ghana’s Future: The Role of the Media in Promoting Peace, Security and the Fight Against Galamsey,” honoured outstanding journalists for their professionalism and contributions to national development.