Kasoa: Mr. Richard Asiedu, Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, has apologised to Obaatanpa Radio, the Ghana Journalists Association, and the broader media fraternity.
According to Ghana News Agency, the apology was issued in response to a seven-day ultimatum set by the GJA after Mr. Asiedu and two colleagues were accused of attacking the Kasoa-based station on June 25, 2026. During a subsequent meeting with GJA leadership, Mr. Asiedu admitted his wrongdoing and acknowledged that he was not above the laws of Ghana.
'In promoting the party's interest, I made some mistakes, stepped on toes but I am not above the law to bulldoze my way through and say I have done it and so what. My mission for going to Obaatanpa Radio was never to disrupt their programme," Mr. Asiedu stated. He extended his apology not only to Obaatanpa Radio but also urged media houses across the Central Region and the country to engage in what he termed as responsible journalism.
In a gesture towards resolving the situation amicably, Mr. Asiedu announced the withdrawal of a GHC10 million defamation suit against the station. He affirmed that police investigations were underway and pledged his full cooperation. He also reiterated the NDC's longstanding commitment to press freedom and emphasized the importance of following lawful procedures when seeking redress.
The meeting also saw the presence of Mr. Kwame Asare Obeng, Member of Parliament for Gomoa Central, who praised Mr. Asiedu for his humility and taking steps beyond what the GJA had demanded. 'It is very difficult to say sorry and he has done more than the GJA demanded of him. He has shown clearly that he is a humble man. He is somebody that the media can work with,' he noted.
Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor, President of the GJA, commended Mr. Asiedu for demonstrating strong leadership by taking responsibility for his actions. He remarked, 'A leader is not someone who runs away from his actions and inactions, those who do so are weak leaders. A leader must take responsibility. If you are a leader and you think you can defend the indefensible, it doesn't make you a leader.'
The GJA accepted Mr. Asiedu's apology and reiterated the call for responsible journalism and the use of lawful means to resolve disputes.