President John Dramani Mahama has denounced attacks on journalists, describing violence against media practitioners as unacceptable in any democratic society.
Speaking during an official working visit to the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) on Wednesday, January 8, 2026, the President stressed that journalists and security personnel are partners in public service, not adversaries.
He said there is an urgent need to reorient some members of the security services to appreciate the role of the media in national development.
“Security officers are tasked with maintaining peace and safety, while journalists are responsible for informing the public about events. These roles are complementary, not antagonistic. Both sides serve the same public interest,” President Mahama noted.
The President made the remarks while responding to questions about recent attacks on journalists, including the alleged assault of a Class FM journalist in Kasoa in the Central Region by personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GFS).
President Mahama revealed that the officers involved in the Kasoa incident have been identified and interdicted, pending the outcome of ongoing investigations.
“I am a journalist by training, so there is no way we can tolerate the continued assault on journalists,” he said, adding that government remains committed to protecting press freedom.
He further disclosed that the government has been engaging the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and various security agencies to address recurring incidents and prevent future attacks on media professionals.
“We have been in touch with the Ghana Journalists Association and connected them with the security services to ensure these matters are properly handled,” he explained.
While acknowledging that isolated incidents may occur, the President insisted that such cases must be dealt with firmly and decisively.
“When these incidents happen, they must be addressed as strongly as possible,” he cautioned.
President Mahama also confirmed that the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, is overseeing the matter and that disciplinary processes have already begun.
“The officers involved have been identified, interdicted, and investigations are ongoing. Assault on journalists will not be tolerated,” he emphasized.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
