The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned the increasing attacks on journalists, warning that such acts undermine the country’s reputation as a beacon of press freedom and democratic stability in Africa.
It stressed that violence against journalists must not be tolerated under any circumstances.
At a high-level stakeholders’ meeting yesterday, the GJA President, Albert Dwumfour, urged all parties to join forces to end violence against journalists. He called for zero tolerance of attacks by government and security agencies, swift investigation and prosecution of perpetrators, the creation of a collaborative mechanism for prevention and protection, a review of legal frameworks to safeguard journalists, and a national commitment to ethical journalism and responsible citizenship.
He said the association had, in past years, implemented a blacklisting strategy against individuals involved in attacks on journalists, which had yielded results. He added that such collective action would be crucial for protecting journalists and strengthening democracy.
Rising attacks
Mr Dwumfour expressed concern over the increasing attacks on journalists, citing five incidents in January alone, while journalists covering sensitive issues, such as the Bawku conflict, faced death threats, online abuse and intimidation.
“Some have been openly branded as enemies simply for doing their jobs.
This dangerous climate of fear and intimidation, if left unchecked, could easily escalate into violence,” he said.
He stressed that the persistent attacks on journalists were undermining the nation’s democratic credentials, citing Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution, which guaranteed media freedom.
“When a journalist is assaulted for recording a public event, threatened for critical commentary, or attacked for asking legitimate questions, it is not just the individual who suffers harm.
“It is the very foundation of our democratic society that is shaken. An attack on a journalist is an attack on the public’s right to know,” he stated.
The GJA President added that the state’s duty is to protect journalists and create an enabling environment for media freedom.
He underscored the critical role of journalists in holding power accountable, informing public discourse, and amplifying marginalised voices, especially in an election year, which should not be taken for granted.
Mr Dwumfour urged stakeholders to take action against violence and intimidation, stressing that no citizen should face harm for lawful actions.
Stand against intimidation
A former President of the GJA, Gifty Afenyi Dadzie, called on media practitioners to remain steadfast in their duty to hold duty bearers accountable despite intimidation and fear.
She ascribed the constant attacks on journalists as attempts to intimidate journalists and undermine their role in the country’s democracy.
Mrs Dadzie urged media owners to put aside political differences and support the GJA in the fight for press freedom.
She stressed the importance of public statements and open support, rather than behind-the-scenes actions.
“I will call on media owners, despite your political polarisation, and when our times come, please stand up, back the GJA, and make open statements.
“When you do things back door, people don’t get the info.
This is a fight for the nation. It is a fight for our democracy.
“It is a strategy to put us back into the dark area of domestication.
When they said that the journalists were domesticated. We are now vibrant, and we must maintain that,” she said.
On the need for safety, Mrs Afenyi Dadzie called on media owners to provide safety gadgets to journalists, citing examples of international media outlets that prioritise journalist safety.
She pledged her support for the GJA’s efforts, urging all to work together to maintain the nation’s vibrant media landscape.
