The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed grave concern over what it describes as a troubling pattern of attacks against journalists, citing 12 documented cases this year alone.
In a statement delivered by President Albert Dwumfour at the GIPC in Accra, the association condemned the persistent aggression, impunity, and blatant disregard for press freedom.
According to Dwumfour, these attacks, which include physical assaults, arbitrary arrests, and cyberbullying, have been perpetrated by both civilians and uniformed security operatives across the country. Journalists covering various events, from elections and crime scenes to protests, have been subjected to harassment and manhandling.
The GJA specifically highlighted the recent attacks during the Ablekuma North parliamentary election re-run, where an EIB Network reporter, Emmanuel Banahene, was allegedly attacked by a senior police officer. A JoyNews reporter, Salomey Nartey, was also reportedly assaulted.
The association acknowledged the police’s announcement that the officer had been charged but insisted that “charging alone is not justice.” The GJA is calling for a swift, transparent, and fair prosecution to ensure meaningful accountability.
Additionally, the GJA used the platform to express solidarity with Kumasi-based Pure FM following a devastating fire that gutted the station’s studios. President Dwumfour and General Secretary Dominic Hlordzi visited the station to assess the damage and called on the public, corporate institutions, and philanthropists to support the station in its rebuilding efforts.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
