Accra, Jan. 11, GNA - The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has congratulated Professor John Evans Atta Mills on his election and subsequent inauguration as President of the Republic of Ghana. In a press release, the GJA stated that it is confident that President Atta Mills, who is no stranger to government machinery will provide decisive and inspirational leadership, and work hard with determination to provide Ghana with a better future.

"We are of the view that events of the fiercely contested December 2008 general elections have resulted in sharp political polarization and we urge His Excellency to build the necessary bridges with his defeated competitors to promote national reconciliation and cohesion which are critical to peace and stability." "We, in the media look forward to a favourable working environment under his government. We are not oblivious of the challenges in the relationship between the last NDC administration and the media but hope this can be overcome and needs to be overcome in the interest of further deepening Ghana's democracy which has become the toast of the world. "We have in the last few years witnessed remarkable improvement in relations between the NDC and the media when the party was in opposition, and hope this will be further strengthened as they once again take over the reigns of government.

The GJA expressed belief that good government media relations are imperative if Ghana was to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the development of its media. "We refer particularly to the latest challenge for which an otherwise vintage performance by the media in the coverage of the recent presidential run-off was nearly marred by dangerous and unethical behaviour by a few radio stations. "We urge the new administration to treat as urgent, calls by the GJA and other stakeholders for the passage of a broadcasting law, to both promote and regulate operations in Ghana's broadcasting industry." There already exists a blueprint formulated by the Advocacy Committee for a Broadcasting Law which has been presented to the National Media Commission and the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

The GJA also congratulates Mr. John Mahana on his assumption to the high office of Vice President and hopes that he brings his media knowledge to bear on the development of the media and the consolidation of freedom of expression in Ghana. The GJA also wishes to further congratulate the Speaker of Parliament Mrs. Justice Joyce Bamford-Addo on her election to the high office of Speaker of the House. "Finally, we congratulate all Members of Parliament on their election."