Members of Parliament have raised urgent concerns over the escalating attacks and intimidation faced by journalists in Ghana.
Despite the critical role journalists play in the free flow of information, various actors in Ghanaian society, including state and non-state entities, political parties, business affiliates, and citizens, are resorting to these harmful tactics to express their displeasure.
The Parliamentarians emphasized the vital importance of safeguarding journalists and holding investigative, prosecutorial, and judicial agencies accountable for reported incidents.
The discussions follow a statement presented by the Minister for Information, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, on Wednesday, November 9, addressing the efforts to enhance journalist safety in Ghana.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah revealed alarming data indicating a concerning upward trend in these attacks.
He underscored that freedom of the press is a cornerstone of Ghana’s democracy and stressed the paramount importance of protecting those who contribute to the free flow of information.
He outlined the government’s commitment to the United Nations Plan of Action on the safety of journalists, advocating for a multi-stakeholder approach to prevent violence, protect journalists in danger, and prosecute perpetrators.
He emphasized the alignment of this initiative with UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, emphasizing public access to information and fundamental protection.
As part of these efforts, the Ministry of Information established the Coordinated Mechanism on the Safety of Journalists.
This mechanism aims to advocate, investigate, hold accountable, and publish reports on incidents related to journalists’ safety. Additionally, it conducts training for key stakeholders, including journalists, security agencies, and the judiciary.
“The safety of journalists is not negotiable. Journalism is not a crime; it is a major national service necessary for the advancement of our democracy,” he stated and called for increased investment in resources, collaboration, and accountability to ensure the security of journalists in Ghana.
Contributing to the statement, Samuel Nartey George, the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram, expressed his concerns about the lack of acknowledgment at the highest levels of the Akufo-Addo government regarding the attacks on press freedom.
He pointed to President Akufo-Addo’s statement, where he downplayed the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Suale as not being an attack on press freedom.
Sam George emphasized the need for a top-down approach to address this issue.
He lamented that the Ministry of Information’s budget for 2022 was insufficient, being less than GH¢1 million, and argued for increased resources to support the ministry.
He stressed the importance of investing in press freedom, considering that journalists are the ones responsible for conveying the work of Parliament to the outside world.
He urged for genuine efforts to protect press freedom, emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with words to ensure journalists can work without fear and intimidation.