The Volta Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has witnessed a significant change in leadership as delegates voted overwhelmingly against the re-election of current executives.
The election, which was held today, saw Dr. Harrison Kofi Belley emerge as the new Chairman Elect, defeating incumbent Chairman Emmanuel Agbaxorde.
Dr. Belley secured 27 votes out of 51 valid votes cast, while Agbaxorde managed to secure only 24 votes. This outcome comes as a surprise to many, given Agbaxorde’s stronghold on the position in the past. Sections of members in the region had alleged underperformance by the current executives, which may have contributed to the outcome.
In addition to Dr. Belley’s victory, other new executives were also elected. Ivy Princess Setordzi, a reporter for Joy News (Multimedia) in the Volta Region, was elected as the new Vice Chairperson, securing 34 votes out of 51 valid votes cast. Xorlali Nutsukpui was also elected as the new Treasurer, beating Ewoenam Kpodo by a single vote.
The newly elected executives have pledged their readiness to work with all members to build the GJA Volta to the satisfaction of all. Ivy Princess Setordzi has promised to pay attention to veteran journalists, young journalists, and female members. Dr. Belley has also called for cohesion and promised to prioritize capacity building and improve the welfare system of the Association.
Dr. Belley has emphasized the importance of membership drive, stating that it is his obligation to bring everyone on board and ensure they get their membership to the GJA. This, he believes, will enable them to participate in future elections.
The Chairman Elect has also highlighted the need to complete the second phase of the Press Center Project. Dr. Belley has promised to leverage partnerships with the corporate world to mobilize resources to complete the project.
The newly elected executives have called for support and cooperation from all members and non-members to enable them to succeed in their roles. They have pledged to work with everyone to build the GJA Volta and improve its fortunes.
The outcome of the election marks a new era for the GJA Volta. The newly elected executives have a challenging task ahead of them, but they have expressed their commitment to working hard to build the Association and improve its welfare system.
