Telling the truth in Ghana has become chilling and dangerous- GJA Prez. calls for end to attacks on Journalists
By: Evans Osei-Bonsu– The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has raised alarm over the increasing threats, intimidation, and attacks against journalists in the line of duty, warning that Ghana’s democracy is at risk if media freedom continues to be undermined.
Speaking at the 29th GJA Media Awards held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Mr. Dwumfour said the media remains “the torchlight of justice” and must be allowed to operate freely without fear or favour. He noted that journalists have paid a heavy price for their dedication to truth and accountability, yet continue to face brutal attacks from powerful interests.
“Before I proceed, I ask that we observe a minute’s silence for our departed journalists and those who have been injured in the line of duty,” he said solemnly. “We also express solidarity with our colleagues who recently suffered injuries in an accident while fleeing from a brutal attack by galamsey operators. May their courage remind us of the price often paid in service to truth and the nation.”
Mr. Dwumfour described recent attacks on journalists as “a chilling narrative” that reveals “how dangerous it has become to tell the truth in this country.” He warned that such hostility towards the press must not be tolerated, urging the authorities to bring perpetrators to justice.
“The happenings are chilling narratives,” he said. “They reveal how these galamsey criminals are becoming bolder, more brutal and better organised, operating like gangs of terrorists. This is deeply alarming. We must wake up as a nation before it is too late.”
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Christian Tetteh Yohuno, for improving relations between the Ghana Police Service and the media, describing it as a positive step towards ensuring the safety of journalists. “We commend the IGP for maintaining a cordial rapport with journalists since our last engagement. We believe this renewed trust will ensure that journalists feel safer working with the police, even in sensitive security environments.”
The GJA President, however, cautioned that state security agencies must not abuse their powers or intimidate the media. “We are concerned that national security agencies entrusted with protecting citizens sometimes undermine that goal through excesses that violate human rights. While we encourage citizens to be law-abiding, we will continue to denounce such abuses,” he stressed.
Calling for unity among journalists, Mr. Dwumfour reminded his colleagues of their sacred duty to truth and national development. “Your Majesty, I wish to urge my colleagues never to be afraid in our service to country and God,” he said. “Even in the face of attacks, we should forge ahead to save our country from death. Our mission is to rescue the perishing and care for the dying, and attacks will not deter us from carrying that cross.”
He concluded by reaffirming the GJA’s unwavering commitment to press freedom and democracy, noting that “the pen is not just a tool, but a torchlight for justice – and in our hands lies the power to safeguard Ghana’s peace, democracy, and environment for generations yet unborn.”
In attendance at the programme was His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, King of the Ashanti Kingdom; President John Dramani Mahama, President of the Republic of Ghana; Acting Chief Justice, Paul Baffoe-Bonnie; and Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin.
Mr. Dwumfour’s remarks drew loud applause from journalists at the event.
Source: Purefmonlinegh.com || Evans Osei-Bonsu || 2025
