The move follows the adjournment of this year’s AGM, as well as last year’s, due to inadequate member turnout.

Article 34(d) of the GJA’s 2004 Constitution requires at least 10 per cent of members in good standing to be present for the AGM to be duly constituted.

However, Monday’s meeting could not proceed as fewer than the required 70 members were present.

Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the GJA, responding to suggestions for a hybrid format involving virtual and in-person participation, described the idea as laudable but emphasised that the Constitution could not be breached.

He explained that any such innovation would require a resolution passed at an AGM or a decision by the National Executive Council within the confines of the Constitution.

Mr Dwumfour said the National Executive would pursue pragmatic and lawful approaches to encourage active member participation in subsequent AGMs.

He noted that although a united Association could have proceeded in the collective interest, the leadership remained cautious to avoid potential legal challenges from aggrieved members.

The Association would, therefore, adopt legitimate measures that would enhance trust, accountability and participation.

Mr Dwumfour expressed disappointment that the meeting could not proceed despite adequate preparations.

“We are ready to render account for our financial and general stewardship and to answer all your questions,” he said, adding that the external auditor had been invited to provide the necessary insights.

He emphasised that the Association remained committed to transparency and accountability.

Mr Dwumfour also indicated that significant resources had been invested in organising the meeting, including arrangements for regional executives to present their reports.

He noted that while some matters could be addressed through an Emergency General Meeting later in the year, others were strictly reserved for discussion at the AGM.

In his opening remarks ahead of the motion for adjournment, Mr Dwumfour highlighted key activities undertaken by the Association over the past year.

These included the introduction of the “Honours Night” to recognise individuals championing press freedom as part of activities marking World Press Freedom Day.

He said the initiative would be sustained this year.

Mr Dwumfour also referenced the peaceful conduct of the recent national elections, the grand awards ceremony held at the Manhyia Palace, and the end-of-year dinner dance.

He further outlined efforts to address assaults on journalists, noting that the Inspector General of Police and his delegation had engaged the National Executive on measures to curb such incidents.

He commended the Police Administration for establishing the Police–Media Relations Committee to address attacks on journalists.

Mr Dwumfour announced plans to extend the Association’s awards scheme to other regions to promote inclusiveness and broader national representation, following a successful event in the Ashanti Region last year.

He reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to engaging stakeholders to safeguard media freedom while promoting professionalism and ethical journalism.

Some members who spoke to the GNA expressed concern about the apparent apathy among journalists towards issues affecting their own welfare, despite their strong advocacy for others.