The Central Regional Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has strongly condemned the alleged physical assault on an Obatanpa Radio producer and the reported temporary closure of the Kasoa-based radio station, describing the incident as a serious attack on press freedom and democratic governance.
In a statement issued on Saturday, June 28, 2026, the association expressed concern over reports that Bernard Mireku, a producer with Obatanpa Radio, was allegedly assaulted following commentary on internal matters within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency.
The GJA further noted allegations linking the incident to the NDC Central Regional Chairman, Richard Asiedu, the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Seth Banini, and others. It stressed that if the allegations are proven, they would constitute a grave assault on media independence and Ghana’s democratic values.
The association emphasised that no political party, public official or individual has the right to intimidate journalists or interfere with the lawful operations of media organisations because of disagreements over editorial content.
Reaffirming that media freedom is guaranteed under Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution, the GJA said journalists must be allowed to carry out their constitutional mandate without fear, intimidation or interference.
The association described violence against journalists as unacceptable and called on the Ghana Police Service to conduct a swift, impartial and thorough investigation into the matter and prosecute anyone found culpable, regardless of political affiliation or position.
It also urged the leadership of the NDC to publicly condemn the incident, apologise to the victims, Obatanpa Radio and the wider media fraternity, and take appropriate disciplinary action against any party officials found responsible.
The GJA reminded individuals and institutions aggrieved by media content that lawful avenues for redress exist, including seeking a right of reply, petitioning the National Media Commission or the GJA, or pursuing legal action through the courts.
While pledging to defend journalists against unlawful attacks, the association also called on media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, accuracy, fairness, balance and ethical journalism.
The GJA expressed solidarity with the management and staff of Obatanpa Radio, reiterating that an attack on one journalist is an attack on the entire media fraternity and the public’s constitutional right to information.
It further called on all political actors to exercise tolerance, respect press freedom and resolve grievances through lawful and democratic means.
By: Bernard Mensah | Planbfmonline.com
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