The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfour, has expressed his frustration and strongly condemned attacks on some journalists during the 2024 general election.

Speaking at a media briefing on Saturday, December 7, Mr Dwumfour emphasized that it is the responsibility of journalists to carry out their constitutional duties, stressing the association's commitment to addressing any excesses arising from the electoral process.

He particularly condemned the involvement of the military in the election process, despite earlier assurances that military personnel would not be present at polling stations.

“Some incidents involving the military have occurred. We have seen visuals of military personnel in uniform at polling stations, the very locations where they were barred from going,” he said.

Read also: Election 2024: No soldiers at polling stations, police lead election security, says Ghana Armed Forces

Mr Dwumfour also condemned the shooting incidents at Nyankpala in the Northern Region, and Ahafo Ano constituency in the Ashanti Region, expressing concern about the potential dangers faced by journalists in such volatile environments. He recalled a similar incident during the 2020 elections, where a journalist, Pius Asiedu, was severely injured.

“When such things happen, there’s a high tendency that journalists may be affected. In 2020, there was an incident at Ablekuma Central where one of our own, Pius Asiedu, a student journalist, was severely injured while performing his role to inform and educate the public. Pius Asiedu has already undergone three surgeries and has not yet recovered,” he explained.

Mr Dwumfour reiterated the GJA’s concern for the safety of its members during the election period, urging the security forces to remain vigilant and ensure the protection of journalists during and after the elections.