Attacks on journalists must end now
The recent surge in attacks on journalists in Ghana is alarming and poses a significant threat to the country's democratic foundations.
According to the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), 12 cases of attacks against journalists have been documented since the start of the year.
These attacks include physical assaults, arbitrary arrests, cyberbullying and obstruction during reporting.
Such incidents not only harm individual journalists but also undermine the public's right to information and freedom of the press, as enshrined in the Constitution.
The GJA's documentation highlights a disturbing trend that requires immediate attention and action to protect journalists and uphold press freedom in the country.
The Ablekuma North incident, where a senior police officer brutally attacked a reporter, is a disturbing example of the dangers journalists face in Ghana.
The fact that the officer's actions were captured on video, and yet the Police Administration has failed to take concrete action against the perpetrator, weeks later, is worrying.
This lack of accountability sends a disturbing message that violence against journalists may be tolerated.
The recent attack on JoyNews journalist Carlos Calony and his cameraman during the MacDan warehouse demolition exercise is another troubling incident.
The actions of the National Security operatives appear to be a blatant attempt to suppress information and silence scrutiny of the demolition exercise, constituting censorship through force.
Such incidents must be strongly condemned, and those responsible should be held accountable to uphold press freedom and protect journalists' rights.
Journalists play a vital role in holding those in power accountable, and their safety and dignity are crucial for a free and independent media.
The Ghanaian Constitution guarantees media freedom and independence, making it the state's duty to protect this right.
This freedom is rooted in Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution. Additionally, international conventions to which Ghana is a signatory, such as: - African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights; Universal Declaration of Human Rights; and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
All of these laws and conventions emphasise the rights of journalists to work without interference. Protecting these rights is essential to ensuring a free and independent media in the country.
The Daily Graphic holds the firm view that attacks, arrests, intimidation, or harassment of journalists constitute not only personal harm but also a constitutional breach.
Such actions undermine the public's right to know and erode democratic foundations.
Protecting journalists is a constitutional obligation of the state and its security agencies, not merely an act of kindness.
We call for a thorough investigation and swift action against perpetrators.
Journalists must be able to perform their duties without fear of reprisal or intimidation, ensuring the public's right to information and upholding democratic principles.
The Daily Graphic stands in solidarity with the GJA and the victims of attacks, and calls on all stakeholders to join us in condemning this unacceptable act of violence.
We are, however, comforted by the assurance of President John Mahama, who is a card bearing member of the GJA, that any attack on the media would not be countenanced under his watch as President of the nation.
Indeed, the President plans to host a meeting between the GJA and heads of security agencies to broker dialogue and to help enforce the tenets of zero tolerance for attacks on journalists.
The security agencies and indeed any other body must note that we will not be silenced or tolerant in the face of systemic violence against journalists.
We will collectively express our outrage as a nation if attacks on journalists continue.
Ghana is a society governed by the rule of law, where those in power must operate within legal boundaries.
We demand concrete action against perpetrators, not just symbolic condemnations.
The work of journalists will not be compromised under the guise of national security or public order.
The freedom of the press is fundamental to a democratic society.
Criminalising journalism undermines this freedom.
Protecting press freedom ensures that journalists can report without fear, holding those in power accountable and keeping the public informed.
