Africa-Press – Ghana. Freedom of the press, guaranteed under Chapter 12 of the 1992 Constitution, remains a core democratic principle in Ghana.
The provision assures the media of free expression without obstruction, fear, or favour.
Culture of Impunity
Despite this constitutional assurance, the increasing cases of brutalities against media practitioners cast a slur on the nation’s democratic credentials.
Over the years, journalists have faced recurring attacks, intimidation, and threats to their lives in the discharge of their duties—often with perpetrators escaping justice.
This culture of impunity not only undermines press freedom but also emboldens attackers who continue to walk free without prosecution.
Recent Scenarios
Several recent incidents of violence against journalists have drawn public condemnation.
Among them is the assault on Class FM reporter Samuel Addo by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) at the Kasoa market in the Central Region, and another attack on UTV and Peace FM reporter, Michael Akrofi, in the Eastern Region.
The unresolved murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein‐Suale on January 16, 2019, after public threats by a political actor, continues to instil fear among many media workers.
Similarly, supporters of the New Patriotic Party reportedly stormed the studios of Jaman Radio at Drobo in the Jaman South Municipality on July 11, 2023, attacking some staff of the station.
GJA’s Position
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has repeatedly expressed deep concern about the persistent violence perpetrated against journalists.
At an emergency press conference in Accra, GJA President, Mr Albert Dwumfour, cited the recent assaults on Class FM, UTV, and Peace FM reporters as examples of growing lawlessness.
He condemned the attacks as barbaric, unprofessional, and a direct affront to the 1992 Constitution.
The GJA has since demanded swift and thorough investigations to ensure justice for the victims and to create a safer environment for media operations.
Demands for Accountability
The Association has also criticised the involvement of some security personnel in attacks on journalists, describing it as worrying and unacceptable.
A recent press release from the GJA called on the GNFS to make public its investigation into the alleged assault on a journalist, after the Association issued a 14‐day ultimatum. As of now, no update has been provided.
Such intimidation from security operatives and political party supporters, the GJA notes, breaches constitutional provisions that guarantee press freedom.
The situation, the Association argues, requires strong political will and commitment to change.
Consequences
If the trend persists, the consequences for Ghana’s democracy will be dire. A climate of fear within the media fraternity breeds self‐censorship, weakens public accountability, and threatens the nation’s democratic foundation.
Protecting Press Freedom
The safety of journalists is indispensable to a functioning democracy. Stakeholders—including government, security agencies, and civil society—must work collectively to safeguard the rights and dignity of journalists and to respect the constitutional protections afforded them.
Why the Attacks?
A critical question remains: Why do journalists continue to suffer attacks despite constitutional safeguards?
Factors such as weak law enforcement, impunity, inadequate legal frameworks, and power imbalances may all contribute. Nonetheless, these challenges should never provide justification for suppressing the media.
The Way Forward
Press freedom is not a privilege but a constitutional right essential to strengthening democratic governance. Ghana must do more to ease tensions between the GJA and the security services and to reinforce protections for journalists.
As the GJA remains steadfast in defending media independence and the dignity of practitioners, society must also acknowledge and support the vital role of the media in driving progressive and sustainable national development.
Source: Ghana News Agency
