Picture : Credit Daniel Bampoe.
Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has vehemently condemned the “brutal and unprovoked assault” on two journalists, Kwabena Agyekum Banahene of EIB Network (GHOne TV and Starr FM) and Salomey Nartey of JoyNews, while they were covering the parliamentary election rerun in the Ablekuma North Constituency on Friday, July 11, 2025.
The incidents, particularly the documented assault on Banahene by a uniformed police officer, occurred on the same day that Ghana’s Vice President, Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, and Minister of State in Charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, were offering assurances of support in the fight against attacks on journalists at the GJA’s national executive swearing-in ceremony.
The GJA highlighted the stark contrast between these assurances and the on-the-ground reality, describing it as “deeply alarming, unfortunate and unacceptable.” Videos circulating widely clearly show the uniformed officer slapping Mr. Banahene, despite the journalist being visibly identifiable in a branded outfit and performing his duties. Banahene recounted that the officer approached him and demanded he leave the premises, and when he explained his need to remain for reporting, the officer “shoved me and slapped me across the face without any provocation.” He expressed concern for his eyesight following the force of the blow. Salomey Nartey was reportedly assaulted by an unknown hooligan during the same coverage.
The GJA views these incidents with “utmost gravity,” expressing dismay that officers entrusted with protecting civilians and journalists are the ones perpetrating such attacks. The association emphasized that journalists play an indispensable role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and public access to information, especially during elections, and any attempt to intimidate or harm them is “an affront to democratic principles.”
While commending the Police Administration for interdicting the officer involved in Banahene’s assault, the GJA is demanding an immediate, thorough, and transparent criminal investigation. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor called on Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohonu to ensure swift and decisive disciplinary action and to be “bold in prosecuting the officer involved in the dastardly act.” The GJA insists that justice must be served for both Mr. Banahene and Ms. Nartey, stressing that a clear signal must be sent that such impunity will not be tolerated within the Ghana Police Service.
The GJA also urged all security agencies to educate their personnel on the critical role of the media in a democratic society and to respect journalists’ rights to work without fear or intimidation. The association affirmed its unwavering solidarity with Mr. Banahene and Ms. Nartey, pledging to offer all necessary support to ensure justice is served and to monitor the situation closely to prevent future occurrences, especially given the government’s renewed commitment to a free press.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
