Journalist of the Year 2025, Moses Apiah, says journalists must guard their independence and refuse to become cheerleaders for governments, politicians and development partners.

He says the media's contribution to development is best measured by its ability to scrutinise commitments, question the use of public resources and bring neglected community concerns into public debate.

Speaking on A1 Radio baesed in Bolgatanga following his recognition at the 5th Upper East Regional GJA Awards, Moses Apiah said journalists must use their platforms to demand answers from institutions responsible for delivering development.

“For me, the role of journalists in promoting development in the Upper East Region is not about becoming cheerleaders for government, politicians or development partners.”

He said journalists have a responsibility to examine whether public resources are being used for their intended purposes and whether development projects are delivering the promised benefits.

According to him, official progress reports often present development as a success story, while the lived experiences of residents may tell an entirely different story.

He urged journalists to bridge that gap by going into communities, listening to residents and independently verifying claims made by public officials.

Moses Apiah said ordinary citizens must also be given greater opportunity to influence the development agenda instead of allowing official announcements to determine which issues receive public attention.

He believes such journalism can strengthen accountability and ensure that development decisions respond to the actual needs of communities.