GJA Demands GNFS PRO’s Dismissal Over Journalist Assault
GJA Demands GNFS PRO’s Dismissal Over Journalist Assault
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) is calling for the immediate dismissal of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Public Relations Officer, Desmond Ackah, over his handling of an assault on a journalist. The incident occurred when Samuel Addo, a Class FM journalist, was allegedly attacked by GNFS personnel while covering a fire outbreak at Kasoa New Market in the Central Region.
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour condemned the assault, describing it as “violent, unlawful, and deeply disturbing”. He stated that the GNFS PRO’s response to the incident was unacceptable and demonstrated a lack of competence and judgment required for the role.
According to the GJA, the GNFS explanation of the incident was contradictory and misleading. The association noted that while the GNFS claimed it was yet to identify the officers involved, it simultaneously stated that no assault had taken place and that only the journalist’s phone had been taken.
The GJA is demanding an unconditional public apology from the GNFS to the journalist and the media community. The association is also calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all GNFS officers involved in the assault.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, publicly denouncing the assault. The GJA has commended Class Media Group for standing firmly behind the affected journalist.
The GJA’s stance is clear: protecting journalists and safeguarding press freedom is non-negotiable in a democratic society.
Author: Korkor Anumu
