GJA gives GAF 14 days to report on assaulted journalists
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has given the Ghana Armed Forces 14 days to submit a comprehensive report on investigations into the alleged assault of two journalists in Accra.
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour said the Association expects details of the investigations, as well as information on disciplinary measures taken against any personnel found to have been responsible.
Speaking at the launch of the 30th GJA Media Awards, Mr Dwumfour referred to the reported assault of Bullet TV journalist Philip Abutiate during a demolition exercise at La Beach.
He also cited the alleged assault of journalist and social media personality Kwaku Davis Sika, popularly known as Sika Official, at La Pleasure Beach, where personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces were reportedly involved.
Mr Dwumfour condemned the incidents and stressed that journalists must be able to carry out their professional responsibilities without fear or interference.
“Journalists must be allowed to work freely and safely. Law security operations should not become an excuse for assaulting media practitioners who are carrying out their constitutional responsibility of informing the public,” he said.
The GJA President said the Association had called on the Minister for the Interior, the National Security Coordinator and the Chief of Defence Staff to ensure that the 14-day deadline was respected and the findings of the investigations made public.
He warned that the GJA would take further action if the Armed Forces failed to provide a satisfactory response within the stipulated period.
“Failure by the Ghana Armed Forces to provide a satisfactory report within the two weeks period would leave the GJA with no option but to escalate the matter through appropriate legal, institutional and public accountability channels. We will also explore all the avenues and exercise the weapons available to us,” he stated.
Mr Dwumfour emphasised that protecting journalists is critical to safeguarding press freedom and Ghana’s democratic system.
“The safety of journalists is not a favour. It is a fundamental requirement for the protection of press freedom and the survival of our democracy. An attack on the media is an attack on our democracy,” he added.
The GJA said it would continue pursuing the matter through the appropriate channels until those found responsible are held accountable.
About The Author
