The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has renewed its calls for accountability following the brazen and unprovoked assault of Samuel Addo, a journalist with the Class Media Group, by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
It is urging the Service to publicly disclose the findings of its investigation and actions taken against those involved.
Reports indicate that Addo was manhandled while attempting to film a fire outbreak at Kasoa New Market in the Central Region on Monday, January 5.
A video of the chaotic incident showed him being shoved, pummeled and verbally abused by officers.
Addressing a press briefing on Wednesday, January 28, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour warned the Fire Service to release the outcome of its probe within 14 days or face “drastic measures, including blacklisting.”
He emphasised that transparency and accountability are vital to safeguarding press freedom.
“The GJA entreats the Ghana National Fire Service to publicly disclose the findings of its investigations, the specific actions taken against the officers involved, and the institutional measures being put in place to prevent future attacks on journalists. Any further silence will be interpreted as complicity,” Mr Dwumfour stated.
He also reiterated calls for the removal of the GNFS Public Relations Officer, accusing him of being unsuitable to manage communications on such matters.
In addition, the Association appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, to ensure a thorough investigation and prosecution of all personnel implicated.
President John Dramani Mahama had earlier confirmed the interdiction of the officers involved, describing the incident as “unacceptable and contrary to media freedom and professionalism.”
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com