GJA Fires IGP For Gagging Journalists

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has fired IGP Akuffo Dampare for gagging journalists. GJA  reiterated its plea for the police to reconsider their centralized approach to sharing information with the media. Currently, all communication from the police across the country is funneled through the capital city, Accra. This setup poses significant challenges for journalists and the general public in accessing timely and relevant information.

Under the directive of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, Public Relations Officers (PROs) and other senior police officials have been instructed to refrain from engaging with the media on any issues. This directive essentially silences regional voices and limits transparency in police operations and accountability.

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Speaking at a workshop in Kumasi, GJA President Albert Dwumfour strongly criticized this centralized communication strategy, labeling it as ineffective. He emphasized the crucial role of the police in being accountable to the citizens they serve and highlighted how the current approach hinders the media’s ability to stay informed about developments within the Ghana Police Service.

Dwumfour also expressed frustration over the lack of progress in the investigation of the alleged assault on two journalists during the New Patriotic Party parliamentary primaries. He revealed that multiple petitions to the office of the Inspector General of Police regarding the matter have been ignored, reflecting a failure of the system to address grievances and ensure justice.

In recent years, there has been a worrying increase in attacks against journalists in Ghana. Data indicates that at least nine journalists suffered attacks between March and October of the previous year alone. Dwumfour stressed the urgent need to address this issue, noting that two attacks had already been recorded within the first two months of the current year.

The workshop organized by the GJA aimed to provide professional development opportunities for online editors, producers, and talk show hosts. It sought to create a media environment free from violence and intimidation while promoting credible news reporting, particularly in the context of the upcoming December 2024 elections.

Dwumfour underscored the high stakes of the elections, with the incumbent New Patriotic Party seeking a third term and the opposition aiming to regain power. Amidst political tensions, concerns over regional insecurity, and economic challenges, maintaining a peaceful discourse in the media is crucial.

To address these pressing issues, Dwumfour announced that the GJA would establish a platform to share best practices and promote peaceful discourse. This initiative aims to create an atmosphere conducive to discussing policy issues leading up to the elections, thereby fostering informed public discourse and contributing to a peaceful electoral process.