GJA President Laments Increasing Attacks on Journalists at 75th Anniversary Public Lectures

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour has lamented the escalating threats faced by Ghanaian journalists, a situation he described as a direct assault on press freedom.

Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour said this in his speech during the 75th anniversary public lectures of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) held in Ho.

The anniversary event, which drew journalists, media professionals, and advocates of press freedom from across the nation, served as a platform for Dwumfour to address critical issues confronting the media landscape in Ghana. His speech underscored the importance of safeguarding journalists and ensuring a safe environment for the practice of journalism.

"Journalists in Ghana are facing unprecedented levels of hostility and violence," Dwumfour stated. "These attacks are not just personal assaults but are, in essence, attacks on the very foundation of our democracy—press freedom."

“In 2024 alone, the GJA imposed a media blackout on key state personalities due to attacks on three journalists while they were on duty. Let me use this anniversary lecture to call on the government and authorities to intensify collaboration with the GJA in ensuring the safety and security of journalists in Ghana.

Dwumfour particularly highlighted the unresolved case of Ahmed Hussein-Suale, an investigative journalist whose murder in January 2019 remains unsolved. Despite numerous calls for justice, the perpetrators have yet to be apprehended and prosecuted.

"Ahmed Hussein-Suale's murder is a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face," Dwumfour emphasised. "It is unacceptable that his killers are still at large. We owe it to him, his family, and every journalist in Ghana to ensure that justice is served."

“We also wish to use this platform to appeal to the Attorney General to start expediting action on the Ahmed Suale murder case, a single issue that keeps affecting the position of the media on the Word Press Freedom Index. Five years have passed, yet there appears to be no progress. As an association, we shall continue to put pressure on state authorities to demand justice for Ahmed Suale.

“I also want to urge anyone with information about those responsible for this matter to help the police investigate this case. The media cannot thrive without the support of the public. As a result, we call for collaboration in this regard as we work to address our developmental challenges.

He assured the audience of the GJA's unwavering commitment to advocating for the protection of journalists and pushing for accountability in cases of violence against media professionals.

"The GJA will not rest until justice is served for Ahmed Hussein-Suale and all other journalists who have been victims of violence. We are committed to working with the authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice."

Dwumfour's address resonated with many in attendance, reinforcing the crucial role of the media in upholding democratic values and the urgent need for concerted efforts to protect journalists from harm.

The 75th-anniversary public lectures of the GJA not only commemorated the association's longstanding contributions to Ghana's media landscape but also highlighted the ongoing challenges and the need for collective action to defend press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country.