The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfour, has sounded the alarm over a disturbing surge in attacks on journalists, describing it as a major threat to democracy and the rule of law.
Speaking during a press briefing in Accra, Mr. Dwumfour lamented that journalists are increasingly becoming targets of aggression from both civilians and state security operatives in the line of duty.
“These attacks are not isolated,” he stated. “They form a troubling pattern of impunity and blatant disregard for press freedom.”
He added that assaults on journalists have occurred during coverage of elections, crime scenes, demolitions, and protests, with perpetrators either walking free or facing negligible sanctions. So far, 12 incidents have been recorded this year alone—a figure the GJA considers “alarming and scary.”
The GJA also expressed grave concern over the silence or lack of decisive action from key state institutions.
Mr. Dwumfour cited the case of JoyNews reporter Carlos Calony and his cameraman, who were allegedly harassed, arrested, and detained while covering the MacDan warehouse demolition.
The GJA described the incident as “censorship through force” and demanded a public explanation from the Ghana Armed Forces and National Security.
Reaffirming the Association’s unwavering commitment to defending journalists, Mr. Dwumfour declared: “Journalism is not a crime. Attacks against journalists are attacks against the soul of democracy.”
He called on civil society, diplomatic missions, and the international community to join in demanding justice, transparency, and accountability to preserve Ghana’s media freedom and democratic integrity.
