The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has welcomed the decision by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and the Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Dominic Ayine, to pursue an out-of-court settlement in the long-standing legal dispute involving journalist Latif Idrissu of JoyNews, Multimedia Group, and the Ghana Police Service.

Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, March 18, GJA President Albert Dwumfour described the move as “a constructive and forward-looking step toward resolving a matter that has remained a significant concern for the media fraternity and advocates of press freedom in Ghana.”

He said the Association views the settlement as an opportunity to “bring long-awaited closure to the case and reinforce confidence in institutional accountability and justice.”

The dispute dates back to 2018, when Mr Idrisu was assaulted while covering a police-related story during a protest at the Criminal Investigations Department headquarters of the Ghana Police Service in Accra.

The incident sparked national outcry and legal action, highlighting broader concerns over journalist safety and accountability in the country.

Mr Dwumfour commended the lead counsel for Mr Idrisu, Samson Lardi Anyenini, saying: “Mr Anyenini’s unwavering commitment, professionalism and sustained dedication over the years have kept the issues of accountability and media protection firmly within the national discourse.”

He also announced that the parties involved are now forming a team to deliberate on settlement terms and determine appropriate compensation to bring the case to a close.

“The GJA calls on the Attorney-General and the Inspector-General of Police to expedite action on the settlement process to prevent further undue delays,” Mr Dwumfour added.

“Swift and transparent handling of this process will demonstrate good faith and strengthen public confidence in the commitment of state institutions to uphold justice and protect press freedom.”

The Association reiterated its position that while cases involving attacks on journalists should always reach a logical and just conclusion, justice can also be achieved through credible alternative dispute resolution mechanisms that promote fairness, healing, and institutional reform.