Kasoa: The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Central Regional branch, has condemned the alleged assault on a producer of Obatanpa Radio and the reported temporary closure of the station at Kasoa.
According to Ghana Web, the incident followed comments made on internal matters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency. The GJA highlighted the involvement of key figures such as NDC Central Regional Chairman, Richard Asiedu, and the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Seth Banini, as a significant attack on press freedom, media independence, and democratic values in Ghana.
The Association stressed the importance of respecting journalistic independence, stating that no political party or public official should intimidate journalists or interfere with media operations due to disagreements with editorial content. The GJA called on the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and take action against those responsible, irrespective of their political affiliations or positions.
The GJA urged political leaders, particularly those from the NDC, to take responsibility by condemning the incident publicly, apologizing to the victims and the media fraternity, and disciplining any party officials found accountable. The Association advocated for addressing media content concerns through legal channels such as the National Media Commission or the courts instead of resorting to violence or intimidation.
While affirming its commitment to defending journalists, the GJA also reminded media practitioners to maintain high standards of accuracy, fairness, and ethical journalism. The Association expressed solidarity with Obatanpa Radio's management and staff, underscoring that an attack on one journalist is an attack on the entire media community.
In its concluding remarks, the GJA called on all stakeholders to respect press freedom and resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful means.