The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in attacks on journalists and the growing climate of insecurity in parts of the country. As the constitutional watchdog of society, these attacks undermine not only press freedom but also Ghana’s democracy.
Solidarity with Pure FM
We first wish to extend our solidarity to Kumasi-based Pure FM, whose studios were gutted by fire last week, causing significant damage and disrupting operations. The GJA stands firmly with the management, staff, and listeners during this difficult period. We urge the public, corporate bodies, and media partners to support Pure FM’s recovery and rebuilding efforts. The resilience shown by the station and its journalists is commendable.
Rising Attacks: A threat to Democracy
The GJA is alarmed by persistent physical assaults, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and cyberbullying targeting journalists, with 12 reported cases so far this year alone. In most cases, perpetrators face little or no consequence, sending a dangerous signal that violence against journalists is tolerated.
The Ablekuma North parliamentary re-run exemplifies this troubling trend. Despite police statements claiming action against the officer who assaulted EIB Network’s Emmanuel Banahene and the attack on JoyNews reporter Salomey Nartey, there has been no clear, transparent update. Justice must go beyond statements, it must be visible and swift.
Demands to the Police Service
The GJA demands the following within seven (7) days:
- A detailed update on all investigations into attacks on journalists over the past seven months.
- A full report on the prosecution of the officer involved in Ablekuma North, including court proceedings and timelines.
- Clear disciplinary measures against officers who assault journalists.
- Concrete measures to prevent future attacks and train officers on respecting press freedom.
Failure to meet these demands will leave us no choice but to advise all media houses nationwide to boycott police-related activities and declare the Service as adversaries of press freedom.
Concern over Recent Detentions
We also condemn the recent arrest and detention of JoyNews journalist Carlos Calony and his cameraman by National Security operatives while covering the MacDan warehouse demolition. This blatant obstruction of lawful reporting must not go unpunished. We call on the Ghana Armed Forces and National Security to publicly explain these actions and share any internal findings.
Beyond condemnations: The Need for Action
We note the President’s recent condemnation of attacks on journalists. While appreciated, it must be backed by concrete actions:
- Direct security agencies to act promptly on reports of abuse.
- Enforce policy and training to uphold media rights.
- Support prosecutions of perpetrators, regardless of rank.
Journalism is protected under Article 162 of Ghana’s Constitution and by international conventions. Attacking journalists is a breach of public trust and democracy itself.
Zero tolerance for Impunity
The GJA will not stand by while journalists are attacked:
- We will pursue civil lawsuits against offenders.
- Petition embassies to deny visas to identified attackers.
- Engage international bodies to blacklist violators from peacekeeping and international postings.
- Publicly name and shame offenders monthly under a new Press Freedom Watchlist.
- Petition security councils to block promotions of offending officers.
Insecurity in Parts of Ghana
We express deep concern over rising insecurity in Bawku, Nkwanta, Ashaiman, and Asawase, especially the tragic killing of innocent students. We urge all actors to embrace dialogue and for security agencies to adopt proactive, intelligence-led interventions. We commend recent government measures but call for deeper engagement with local stakeholders.
Call for Professionalism in Conflict Reporting
We urge journalists to report ethically and responsibly, especially in conflict zones. The GJA will support law enforcement in prosecuting any journalist who incites violence or spreads disinformation.
Moving Forward
The GJA stands firm: Journalism is not a crime. Attacks on journalists are attacks on Ghana’s democracy. We call on civil society, religious bodies, and the public to stand with us in defending press freedom.
We remain committed to protecting every journalist and will not relent until Ghana remains a safe place for free, responsible, and fearless journalism.
By Peter Quao Adattor
