Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), Dr. John Osae-Kwapong, has emphasised the importance of accountability in the wake of a recent surge in assaults on journalists in the line of duty.
Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV on Saturday, August 2, Dr. Osae-Kwapong said while government condemnation and public dialogue are crucial, concrete punitive actions against perpetrators would serve as a stronger deterrent and help restore public trust.
“The dialogue is important, the same as the immediate response from the president,” he stated. “But I strongly believe that ultimately holding those persons accountable for their actions with punishment will also go a long way to serve as a deterrent to others who may want to do the same. But also, it will assure Ghanaians that this is not the government environment that media persons or ordinary citizens are going to be living in.”
His comments come in the wake of a troubling string of attacks on media practitioners.
On July 30, Joy News reporter Carlos Calony was detained by National Security operatives while covering the aftermath of the demolition of a warehouse under construction.
Eyewitnesses also alleged that a soldier physically assaulted a civilian who attempted to film the arrest. The specific reasons for Calony’s arrest remain unclear, prompting outrage from press freedom advocates and civil society organisations.
In another incident during the rerun of elections at 19 polling stations in the Ablekuma North constituency, GHOne TV journalist Agyekum Banahene was reportedly harassed while covering proceedings at the Church of Pentecost, North Odorkor Polling 2 Station.
Both President John Dramani Mahama and the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) have publicly condemned the incidents, affirming their commitment to protecting press freedom and upholding the rule of law.
Despite these assurances, Dr. Osae-Kwapong emphasised that, beyond public statements, visible and decisive disciplinary action is needed to prevent future violations and to reinforce Ghana’s democratic credentials.
Govt condemns arrest of Joy News reporter, orders immediate probe