That, according to him, would help consolidate the country’s credential as the beacon of democracy in Africa and ensure stability.

Mr Monney, who was speaking at a Special Sunday Service held by The End-Time Revival Centre of the Assemblies of God Church in his honour, said: “Use your power and influence as journalists to help build and not destroy the nation, and your reports should not be in a way that will endanger our stability as a country.”

The GJA President made reference to how successful the country’s past seven elections had been, while acknowledging the role of the media in making that possible.

“Words are so powerful; the most powerful weapon is not an AK 47 but words, and it is very important that we, as journalists, inject the highest degree of caution in our reportage in this crucial year,” he added.

He further underscored the need for journalists to abide by the principles that underpinned the journalism profession, adding: “We need to allow ourselves to be guided by the principles of fairness and objectivity, and we also need to ensure that we don’t tilt our discussions and reportage in a violent manner.”

Special Service

The special service, which took place at the church’s auditorium at Adenta in Accra, was organised by the church to honour the GJA President’s contribution to the development of journalism in the country and for being the longest-serving deacon of the assembly.

It brought together various media practitioners, friends and family members of Mr Monney, as well as heads of various academic institutions, including the Ghana Institute of Journalism.

The four-hour-long service commenced at exactly 8:30 a.m. with the regular praises and worship and a sermon, followed by a special service to acknowledge the GJA President for serving as the patron of the church’s choir and deacon for nine years.

The church, led by Rev. Dr Francis Nyarko, clothed the GJA President in Kente, in addition to other items presented to him.

Citation

Part of the citation presented to him read: “For over three decades, you have contributed meritoriously to the development and growth of journalism in Ghana and beyond. Consistently, you performed these duties in a high professional manner.

“Over the years, you championed the cause of responsible journalism practice, high sense of professionalism and upheld the highest level of ethics.

“By dint of hard work, you rose through the ranks to become the Vice-President of the GJA and further got elected as the President of the association to serve two terms. You have served the Lord with gladness, tirelessly, faithfully and with great compassion for His flock as the longest-serving deacon of the End-Time Revival Centre. You have planted seeds of hope in the lives of many and truly made a difference.”

Sermon

In his sermon, which was on the theme: “So then, let your light shine”, Rev. Dr Nyarko said there was the need for leaders occupying various positions in the country to exhibit exceptional and exemplary leadership for the youth to emulate for God to honour them, as in the case of Daniel in the Holy Bible.

“For any leadership position you hold, let your light shine before others, that they may see the way,” he said.