The Ghanaian government has issued a stern condemnation following a distressing incident involving the physical assault of a media professional by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). The victim, Samuel Addo, a journalist with the Class Media Group, was reportedly attacked while performing his professional duties, sparking widespread outrage across the media landscape and the general public.
The incident occurred during a fire outbreak at the Kasoa New Market. While the specific circumstances that led to the confrontation remain under investigation, a video of the encounter quickly went viral on social media. The footage showed a group of fire officers subjected Mr. Addo to a physical beating, an act that has been described by many as a blatant abuse of power and a violation of press freedom.
In a swift response to the escalating public concern, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, took to his official X (formerly Twitter) handle to address the situation. He described the attack as “most unacceptable” and emphasized that such conduct has no place in a democratic society that values the rule of law and the safety of journalists.
“The attack on Class Media Group’s Samuel Addo by some personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service is most unacceptable and I condemn same,” the Minister stated. He further reassured the public and the media fraternity of the government's commitment to justice, adding, “Firm action will be taken against the rogue elements who carried out this attack.”
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Ghana, particularly when reporting from volatile or high-pressure scenes. Media advocacy groups have frequently called for better protection for reporters and more rigorous training for security and emergency personnel on how to interact with the press.
As the government prepares to take disciplinary measures, the case serves as a critical reminder that state officials are not above the law. The public now looks to the Ministry of Interior and the leadership of the Ghana National Fire Service to ensure that those involved are held accountable, serving as a deterrent against future acts of violence against the media.