The Ghana Journalists’ Association (GJA) has strongly condemned a renewed wave of attacks, threats and intimidation against journalists, warning that such acts pose a grave danger to media freedom and Ghana’s democratic order.
Addressing a Constitution Day press conference on Tuesday, January 7, 2026, at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra, GJA President Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour described recent incidents involving state security agencies and political actors as “disturbing, intolerable and unacceptable.”
Constitution Day and Media Freedom
Mr. Dwumfour underscored the importance of Constitution Day as a moment of national reflection on the supremacy of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression, media independence and the public’s right to information.
He noted that these constitutional protections impose both rights and responsibilities on journalists, while equally obligating state institutions and citizens to respect the media’s role in holding power to account and safeguarding democratic governance.
The GJA also extended New Year greetings to journalists across the country, reaffirming its commitment to their safety, welfare and professional development.
Commendation of the Police
The Association commended the Ghana Police Service, led by Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohonu, for efforts to reduce attacks on journalists and improve police–civilian relations. The GJA urged the Police Administration to sustain professionalism, transparency and accountability, describing public trust as the cornerstone of effective policing.
“A Disappointing Start to the Year”
Despite hopes for an attack-free 2026, the GJA said the year had begun on a troubling note with the alleged assault of a journalist by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
Attack on Class FM Journalist
The GJA condemned what it described as the “brutal, unlawful and reprehensible” attack on Class FM journalist Samuel Addo during coverage of a fire outbreak at the Kasoa Market in the Central Region on Sunday, January 4, 2026.
According to the Association, Mr. Addo was assaulted while lawfully carrying out his professional duties. A widely circulated video showed the journalist and some civilians being attacked with helmets.
“This was not only an assault on a journalist, but a direct attack on media freedom and the public’s right to information,” Mr. Dwumfour said.
The GJA rejected as “weak, misleading and unacceptable” the GNFS explanation that officers merely seized the journalist’s phone because he was recording without permission, stressing that no fire officer has the authority to obstruct lawful journalistic work or confiscate equipment.
Demands for Arrests and Accountability
The Association called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure the immediate arrest, investigation and prosecution of all personnel involved, insisting that internal disciplinary action alone would be insufficient.
The GJA further demanded that the Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sapong, publicly condemn the assault, identify the officers involved and apply severe sanctions, including dismissal where appropriate. It also called for the removal of the GNFS Public Relations Officer, describing him as unfit for the role.
An unqualified public apology to Mr. Addo, the Class Media Group and the media fraternity was also demanded.
The GJA welcomed the condemnation of the attack by the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, and pledged to work with the government and Class Media Group to ensure justice.
Threats Against Journalist in Sege
The GJA also condemned alleged threats and intimidation against freelance journalist Joseph Akrofi Ocansey in Sege, Ada, reportedly involving the area’s Member of Parliament, Hon. Daniel Keshie Bessey, and the NDC Constituency Communications Officer, Mr. Freeman Edjeodji.
The incident followed a social media post by the journalist demanding accountability over the allocation of security service recruitment slots. According to a formal complaint to the GJA, the journalist was verbally abused and allegedly threatened.
The Association described the allegations as “reckless, reprehensible and criminal,” noting with concern a pattern of attacks on journalists in Ada. Since 2022, at least eight such cases have been recorded, including one that led to the death of journalist Noah Dameh.
Clear Demands
The GJA called for:
* Immediate parliamentary action against Hon. Daniel Keshie Bessey for conduct that brings Parliament into disrepute.
* Disciplinary action by the National Democratic Congress against Mr. Freeman Edjeodji and other party officials involved.
* A thorough police investigation and protection for the journalist.
* Full accountability for all persons found culpable, without fear or favour.
Warning Ahead of NPP Flagbearership Contest
The Association issued a warning to the leadership of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to rein in supporters ahead of its flagbearership contest, stressing that political competition must never be used to harass or attack journalists.
Call for Ethical Journalism
While defending press freedom, the GJA urged journalists to remain committed to responsible, accurate and ethical reporting in the public interest. The Association reaffirmed its determination to enforce professional standards and promote credibility and public trust.
Mr. Dwumfour announced that the GJA would continue its monthly briefings, training programmes, advocacy activities and preparations toward the 30th GJA Media Awards, calling for support from members and partners.
Conclusion
“Let it be stated clearly and unequivocally: journalists will not be silenced by threats, abuse or violence,” the GJA President said. “Ghana must never wait for another life to be lost before acting decisively.”
Long live journalism in Ghana. Long live Ghana’s 1992 Constitution.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Elvis
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