By: Nana Antwi Boasiako
As the 2024 elections draw near, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has issued a stern warning to politicians to cease harassing and assaulting journalists. The GJA has noted a disturbing trend where politicians take advantage of journalists’ professionalism and tolerance, subjecting them to physical and verbal abuse when political tensions rise.
The association is urging politicians to respect the rights and safety of journalists, who play a crucial role in ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
Speaking at the Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Accra on Wednesday July 31, Albert Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), delivered a stern warning to politicians regarding the consequences of attacking journalists. He stressed that any incidents of assault on journalists before, during, or after the 2024 elections would be met with severe repercussions and would not be tolerated.
“Let me reiterate a warning to politicians and groups prone to attacking journalists: if you’re unable or unwilling to tolerate our presence and reportage during this election, then keep your distance. But if you approach us with aggression, be prepared to face equal hostility in return,” he declared.