The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has demanded swift and decisive action against officers of the Ghana National Fire Service accused of attacking journalists in the line of duty, warning that failure to act will further entrench impunity against the media.
The demand was contained in a statement read by the President of the GJA, Mr. Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, who condemned the alleged conduct of some Fire Service personnel, describing it as unacceptable, unprofessional, and a direct assault on press freedom.
According to the GJA, journalists covering an incident involving the Ghana National Fire Service were harassed and obstructed, despite clearly identifying themselves as media practitioners performing their constitutional duty. The Association stressed that the actions of the officers involved amount to an abuse of power and a violation of the rights of journalists.
Mr. Dwumfour emphasized that attacks on journalists by state security and emergency service agencies are particularly worrying, as these institutions are expected to protect lives and uphold the rule of law. He noted that when such bodies become perpetrators, public trust and democratic accountability are severely undermined.
The GJA therefore called on the leadership of the Ghana National Fire Service, the Interior Ministry, and the Ghana Police Service to immediately investigate the incident and ensure the arrest and prosecution of all officers found culpable, regardless of rank.
Reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance on attacks against journalists, the Association warned that it would not hesitate to escalate the matter through sustained advocacy and lawful actions if the incident is not treated with the seriousness it deserves.
The GJA concluded by urging all state institutions to respect media freedom and recognize journalists as partners in national development, not adversaries.
