The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed discontent towards the arrest of David Tamakloe, the Vice President of Private Newspapers Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), over the publication of a story in his digital newspaper about the alleged harassment of minority ethnic groups in New Edubiase.

In a press release dated Thursday, October 8, 2020, and signed by the President of GJA, Affail Monney, the Association emphasized that Ghana's Constitution allows for the freedom of expression and as such Mr Tamakloe's arrest is unconstitutional.

“The 1992 constitution guarantees freedom of expression and creates avenues for persons who feel aggrieved by any media content to complain to the National Media Commission (NMC).

"To the extent that Mr. Tamakloe’s arrest relates to his journalistic work, the GJA believes the police action is unconstitutional and undermines the values of our democracy” it stated.

The Association expressed concern about the "wrongful application of police authority that derails Ghana's democratic ascendancy", especially as the nation prepares for its 8th democratic elections.

The statement further urged persons with any grievances against Mr. Tamakloe to direct their agitations towards the NMC.

GJA also noted that it will not falter in its search for justice to be meted out to the PRINPAG Vice President.

"The GJA will continue to follow, with all-consuming attention, these disturbing developments until justice is expeditiously served to assuage the concerns ignited by the circumstances and timing of Mr. Tamakloe's arrest and prosecution".

David Tamakloe, Editor-in-Chief of ‘Whatsup News’, was apprehended at Tesano on Wednesday, October 7, 2020, after failing to honour a Police invitation to answer questions concerning his publication of alleged bias by government against Ewes and Northerners during the voters' registration exercise.