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By Ebenezer Madugu
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has given the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) a 14-day ultimatum to issue a public statement on the status of investigations into the recent assault on a journalist, warning that legal action will follow if the leadership remains silent.
Addressing a press briefing at the Ghana International Press Centre in Accra, GJA President, Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, welcomed President John Dramani Mahama’s confirmation that officers involved in the incident have been interdicted, describing it as a step in the right direction.
However, Mr Dwumfour expressed deep concern over what he described as the deafening silence of the GNFS leadership on what he termed a shameful act against the media.
GJA is worried that despite the public outrage, the leadership of the Fire Service has failed to communicate officially on the matter, calling for the immediate publication of findings from the service’s internal investigations.
He further urged the dismissal or reassignment of the Fire Service’s Public Relations Officer, whom he accused of mishandling public communication following the incident.
The GJA President also called on the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to ensure that the matter is handled with the full rigour of the law to serve as a deterrent to future attacks on journalists.
Attack on Peace FM Reporter
Mr Dwumfour also condemned the attack on Peace FM’s Eastern Regional Correspondent at Kukurantumi, who was allegedly assaulted by a police officer while lawfully carrying out his duties during an operation involving Fulani herdsmen.
According to the GJA, although a formal complaint was lodged, little progress has been made in investigating the incident.
“The journalist was working within the confines of the law, yet he was assaulted,” Mr Dwumfour stated, demanding an immediate investigation and appropriate sanctions against the officer involved.
Media General Correspondent Assaulted
The GJA further condemned the assault on Media General’s Upper East Regional Correspondent, Mr Kanwuley, who was reportedly attacked by military personnel.
Mr Dwumfour called on the military high command to investigate the incident thoroughly and ensure that the officers responsible are brought to justice.
Legal Action Looms
Reiterating the Association’s stance, Mr Dwumfour said the GJA’s legal team has begun preparing court action should the GNFS fail to respond within the 14-day ultimatum.
“The days of impunity are over,” he stressed. “Journalists will no longer be assaulted without consequences”.