The Central Regional branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned the alleged physical assault on a producer of Obaatanpa Radio and the reported temporary closure of the Kasoa-based radio station following commentary on internal matters within the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency.
In a news release issued on Saturday, June 28, 2026, the Association described the incident as a serious attack on press freedom, media independence and Ghana’s democratic principles.
According to the statement signed by the Central Regional Chairman of the GJA, Kingsley Nana Buadu, the alleged involvement of the Central Regional Chairman of the NDC, Prof. Richard Kofi Asiedu, the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Seth Banini, and others, if proven, would amount to intimidation against journalists and unlawful interference in the operations of a media house.
The incident reportedly involved Mr. Bernard Mireku, a producer at Obaatanpa Radio, who was allegedly assaulted following discussions on the station concerning internal issues within the NDC in the constituency.
“The reported involvement of the NDC Central Regional Chairman, Mr. Richard Asiedu, the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Mr. Seth Banini and others, if established, constitutes a serious attack on press freedom, media independence and Ghana’s democratic values,” the statement said.
The GJA stressed that no political party, public official or individual has the right to intimidate journalists or interfere with the lawful operations of any media organisation because of disagreements over editorial content.
Reaffirming the constitutional protection of media freedom in Ghana, the Association referenced Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution, noting that journalists must be allowed to carry out their duties without fear, intimidation or interference.
“Media freedom is non-negotiable,” the statement emphasised.
The Association further condemned all forms of violence against journalists, describing assaults on media practitioners and the disruption of media operations as criminal acts that have no place in a democratic society.
The GJA consequently called on the Ghana Police Service to conduct a swift, impartial and thorough investigation into the matter and prosecute anyone found culpable, regardless of their political affiliation or position.
The Association also urged the leadership of the NDC to publicly condemn the incident, apologise to the victims, Obaatanpa Radio and the wider media fraternity, and take disciplinary action against any party officials found responsible.
According to the GJA, individuals or institutions dissatisfied with media content have lawful avenues available for redress, including seeking a right of reply, petitioning the National Media Commission or the GJA, or pursuing legal action through the courts.
“Resorting to violence, intimidation or shutting down a media outlet is unlawful and unacceptable,” the statement added.
While defending journalists against unlawful attacks, the GJA also reminded media practitioners of the need to uphold professionalism, accuracy, fairness, balance and ethical standards in their work.
The Association expressed solidarity with the management and staff of Obaatanpa Radio, reiterating that an attack on one journalist is an attack on the entire media fraternity and the public’s constitutional right to information.
The GJA finally called on all political actors to exercise tolerance, respect press freedom and resolve grievances through lawful and democratic means.
By 1960news.com
