Government has condemned the assault of a journalist from the Class Media Group, allegedly by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service, and said disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible.
The incident occurred on Monday (5 January), when Samuel Addo was covering a fire outbreak at the Kasoa New Market in the Central Region. Reports indicate that the journalist was attacked after some fire service officers attempted to stop him from filming the scene.
Unacceptable
Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, described the incident as unacceptable and said the government would not tolerate attacks on media practitioners carrying out their professional duties.
He said firm action would be taken against the officers involved, stressing the administration’s commitment to press freedom and accountability within state institutions.
Strong defence
The Ghana National Fire Service has publicly commented on the development defending its personnel.
“Our men did not assault the journalist. The seized his phone because he was recording an altercation at the fire scene without permission”, says Desmond Ackah spokesperson for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) who was quoted by Accra-based Starr FM as saying.
Backlash
The comment has drawn backlash from a section of the public including media practitioners.
“I agree! Attack on a journalist is an attack on the conscience of its people. I have said time and again we need to protect the space. Freedom of Expression is priceless!” said Rebecca Ekpe, Vice President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
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