NPP condemns Hajia Fati's attack on journalist

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has dissociated itself from the attack on Adom FM’s journalist by one of its supporters, Hajia Fati.

Hajia Fati who has admitted attacking Ohemaa Sakyiwaa Ahwenepa said she slapped her because the reporter did not seek her permission before taking pictures of  her whilst at the NPP headquarters last Friday May 4, 2018.

On Friday Ahwenepa was at the NPP headquarters to report on the picking of nomination forms by aspiring national officers of the party.

Whilst there, suspended First Vice-Chairman of the party, Mr Sammy Crabbe came around to pick forms but was asked to go and bring cash since the party was not accepting banker's draft.

Hajia Fati who stormed the party headquarters upon hearing Sammy Crabbe had been there vowed not to allow him to pick the forms should he return.

Her outbursts created a scene and according to the journalist, in her attempt to capture proceedings with her phone, Hajia Fati pounced on her and slapped her.

The case has since been reported to the Nima Police for action.

A statement issued Tuesday and signed by the Acting General Secretary, John Boadu condemned the act by Hajia Fati; noting that the party respects and cherishes the role of the media as partners in development.

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The NPP statement further noted that the party will not condone any action intended to suppress press freedom.

“We distance ourselves from the act and condemn it unreservedly… No journalist should feel intimidated and must continue to discharge his/her duties without fear,” the statement said.

The party further gave the assurance that it has begun an internal enquiry into the incident and will also cooperate with other agencies investigating same.