The Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) has expressed deep concerns over the state of media freedom and press safety in the country. In a statement delivered at a news conference held at the Ghana International Press Centre, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour highlighted several issues that have raised red flags regarding the freedom of the press and the safety of journalists.
One of the key issues raised by the GJA is the ongoing investigation into the murder of Ahmed Suale, a journalist who was brutally killed in 2019. While the police have made some progress in the case, the GJA is concerned that many issues surrounding the case remain unclear. The association has called on the police to provide periodic briefings on the case to update the public on the progress of the investigation.
The GJA also expressed concerns about the attack on three journalists in the Western Region who were brutally assaulted by illegal small-scale miners while covering the destruction of a forest reserve. The association condemned the attack and called for speedy and satisfactory justice for the victims. The GJA also urged the government to prioritize the welfare of journalists and ensure their safety while performing their duties.
Another issue raised by the GJA is the arrest and intimidation of journalists by the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). The association condemned the detention of journalist Gordon Asare-Bediako for allegedly publishing false information and announced plans to initiate a judicial review of the OSP's actions. The GJA described the OSP's actions as harassment and an overreach of authority.
The GJA also weighed in on the impasse between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and Media General, which has resulted in the NPP boycotting Media General's programs. The association commended the NPP's General Secretary and Minority Leader for showing restraint and tolerance in the face of chaos, but condemned the actions of the NPP's 3rd National Vice Chairman, Alhaji Osman Masawudu, who pushed a TV3 microphone set to the floor during a press conference. The GJA described Masawudu's actions and comments as reckless and threatening and called on him to withdraw his statements and apologize.
The association also urged the NPP to dissociate itself from Masawudu's actions and comments and to respect the rights of journalists to perform their duties without fear or intimidation. The GJA emphasized that the media plays a critical role in promoting democracy and good governance and that any attempts to intimidate or harass journalists would undermine the rule of law and democracy.
The GJA also raised concerns about the absence of a functional National Media Commission (NMC) and called on constituents who have not submitted their nominations to the NMC Secretariat to do so without delay. The association emphasized the importance of a functional NMC in regulating the media industry and promoting media freedom and responsibility.
In addition to these issues, the GJA announced plans to commemorate World Press Freedom Day in a unique way this year. The association plans to honor distinguished individuals and institutions that have championed and supported the cause of media freedom and the GJA. The GJA also announced plans to organize the 4th Africa Media Convention in Marrakech, Morocco, in May 2025.
The GJA also addressed two major national issues: the fight against galamsey and the renewed Bawku conflict. The association commended the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources for his commitment to fighting galamsey but emphasized that more needs to be done to ensure greater success. The GJA also called for the protection of journalists and facilitation of their work in mining fields to enable them to discharge their duties without hindrance or fear for their lives.
On the Bawku conflict, the GJA added its voice to the many calls for peace to prevail in the area. The association urged all sides to the conflict to promote peace and support the efforts of the Asantehene towards resolving the conflict. The GJA also advised media practitioners to be circumspect in their reportage and comments to avoid undermining the peace process.
In conclusion, the GJA's statement highlighted the importance of promoting media freedom and press safety in Ghana. The association's concerns about the state of media freedom and press safety in the country are valid and deserve attention from the relevant authorities. The GJA's efforts to promote media freedom and responsibility are commendable, and its plans to commemorate World Press Freedom Day and organize the 4th Africa Media Convention are timely and significant.
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