Yendi MP Farouk Aliu Mahama has told Joy News he is "humbled" after the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) lifted its media ban on him.

For the first time in over three months, he will enjoy media coverage in the country after he assaulted Citi News’ Northern Regional Reporter, Mohammed Aminu Alabira, on January 27, 2024.

Reacting to the GJA decision on Joy FM's News Night, the MP said he has learnt his lessons and would want to be an ambassador to advocate the safety of journalists in the country going forward.

Lifting the ban

Explaining the decision to lift the media blackout at a press conference in Accra, GJA president Albert Dwumfour, said Mr Aliu Mahama has been remorseful and has shown commitment to collaborate with the media fraternity in ensuring journalists’ safety.

"Farouk Aliu Mahama apologised for the assault on the Citi FM reporter and committed to working to restore cordial relations with the media in the Northern Region and the country as a whole," he said.

He further explained the steps taken by the MP towards building a peaceful relationship with the media fraternity in the country.

"On May 6, 2024, the MP, accompanied by the Minister for Information-designate, Fatimatu Abubakar, and her deputy-designate, Sylvester Tetteh, sought an audience with the GJA and its partners.

"In a meeting held at the International Press Center, Farouk Aliu Mahama decided on an amicable settlement in the matter, in the spirit of the World Press Freedom Day, celebrated on May 3.”

According to Mr Dwumfour, following further steps and the withdrawal of his suit against the GJA, the Association and its partners decided to lift the media blackout placed on the MP.

"After meeting as a coalition to assess the conciliatory gesture of the MP, the plea by the Information Minister-designate and her deputy designate and the positive feedback from the management of Citi FM, the GJA and its partners have decided to end the media boycott placed on Mr Farouk Aliu Mahama.

"We, therefore, respectfully request all media organisations to take note and act accordingly, with effect from today, May 9.”

Media blackout works magic

Mr Albert Dwumfour has stated that the media blackout strategy has yielded positive results as attacks on journalists appear to be on the decline.

"We are glad to say that no attack on journalists has been recorded since we made these observations at our last press conference. Furthermore, there is good news on Ghana’s improved press freedom ranking as recently announced.”

Despite these positives, President of GJA Albert Dwunfour has cautioned the media to uphold the highest ethical and legal standards of media coverage in the 2024 general elections. He urged owners of media outlets across the country to enhance the security of their houses and their staff as the country inches towards the elections. END."