The Founder of Class Media Group, Alhaji Seidu Agongo, has underscored the importance of trust in building successful relationships and sustaining public confidence in the media, arguing that credibility must be earned through accuracy, fairness, transparency and accountability.
He made the remarks at the official launch of Accra TV, the newest addition to the Class Media Group, where he called on the media to recognise trust as one of its most valuable assets in an era characterised by an overwhelming flow of information.
Addressing distinguished guests, business partners and staff of the media organisation, Mr Agongo said the launch of the new television station presented an opportunity not only to celebrate the group’s expansion but also to reflect on the values that underpin its operations and relationship with the public.
He expressed appreciation to the staff and audience of Class Media Group, crediting their dedication, hard work, loyalty and continued support for helping the organisation remain in business through both challenging and favourable periods.
According to him, the commitment of employees and the confidence of audiences have played an important role in sustaining the group, reinforcing the need to protect the trust it has built over the years.
Mr Agongo observed that trust has come under considerable pressure in recent times, with citizens increasingly questioning the actions of leaders and employers concerned about loyalty within their organisations.
He argued that the challenge facing society is no longer simply the availability of information but the ability to distinguish credible and truthful information from content that may be misleading or lack transparency.
“The challenge of our time is not a lack of information. We are surrounded by information. The challenge is determining what is credible, what is transparent, and what is true,” he stated.
His remarks highlighted the responsibility of media organisations to provide reliable information and help audiences make informed decisions in an environment where information is readily available from multiple sources.
He stressed that the ability of a media organisation to command public confidence depends on the standards it upholds in gathering, verifying and presenting information.
The Class Media Group founder described the media as a critical link between institutions and the public, explaining that the relationship can only remain effective when it is supported by trust.
He maintained that credibility cannot be secured through demands or declarations but must be established over time through responsible conduct and consistent professional standards.
According to him, accuracy, fairness, consistency and accountability must remain central to the work of media organisations seeking to maintain the confidence of their audiences.
Mr Agongo also emphasised that the reputation of a media organisation should not be measured solely by its infrastructure, technological resources or production facilities.
He identified credibility as the most valuable asset of Class Media Group, noting that the principle would continue to guide the operations of Accra TV.
“The real litmus test of trust is not what we do when things are easy. It is what we do when transparency is difficult,” he added.
The statement underscored his position that a media organisation’s commitment to transparency and accountability becomes particularly important when it faces difficult decisions or situations that test its principles.
As the newest television station under the Class Media Group, Accra TV is expected to operate with a commitment to providing a platform for credible information, constructive dialogue and accountability.
Mr Agongo assured stakeholders, particularly viewers, that the station would seek to establish itself as a trusted source of information and a platform that listens to the public, informs audiences and serves their interests.
His remarks placed public confidence at the centre of the station’s mission, suggesting that its long-term success would depend not only on its programming and reach but also on its ability to demonstrate reliability and responsibility.
The commitment also highlights the importance of maintaining professional standards in news reporting and creating opportunities for dialogue on issues affecting individuals, communities and the country.
For Accra TV, the challenge will be to translate these assurances into consistent editorial practices that demonstrate its commitment to truth, fairness and accountability.
Mr Agongo further argued that trust has implications beyond individual relationships and the operations of media organisations, linking it to the broader development of society.
He maintained that when trust grows, societies prosper, businesses succeed and democracy flourishes.
His comments reflected the role of credible information in strengthening relationships between citizens and institutions, supporting informed public participation and encouraging accountability.
In a democratic society, the media serves as an important channel through which citizens receive information, scrutinise decisions and engage in discussions on matters of public interest.
Maintaining public confidence in that role requires media organisations to demonstrate that their reporting is guided by facts, fairness and a commitment to serving the public interest.
The launch of Accra TV therefore provides Class Media Group with an opportunity to extend its presence in the broadcasting industry while reinforcing the principles its founder says are essential to earning and sustaining public trust.
As the station begins its operations, Mr Agongo’s message is that its credibility will ultimately depend on what it does, the standards it upholds and the consistency with which it fulfils its responsibility to viewers.
Story by Kwame Kakraba
