The University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has issued a stern call to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, urging him to ensure the arrest and prosecution of individuals responsible for the recent media attacks in the country.
UTAG views these attacks as a significant threat to Ghana’s democratic credentials and believes that they should not be tolerated.
In a communiqué released on Monday, October 16, signed by UTAG’s National President, Professor Mamudu, and National Secretary, Dr. Elliasu Mumuni A. Akudugu, the Association expressed deep concern over the increasing assaults on the freedom of expression and media.
UTAG emphasized that these developments are not in the best interest of Ghana’s growing democratic dispensation.
The recent attacks on journalists and media outlets in the country have raised serious concerns about the freedom of expression guaranteed in Ghana’s Constitution.
UTAG commended the police for their swift action in arresting some individuals who recently attacked journalists and panelists at United Television (UTV).
READ ALSO: Containing the Israel-Hamas War: Blinken’s Talks with El-Sissi
Still, the Association called on the IGP to ensure that all perpetrators of such attacks, including the one on Citi FM journalists and media houses, are arrested and prosecuted without fail.
One of the notable incidents involved a group of young men who disrupted the live television show “United Showbiz” on UTV, threatening the host and her guests.
They claimed that the show had unfairly criticized the government in an unprofessional manner. Another incident involved NDC thugs attacking a Citi FM and Citi TV journalist, Ms. Akosua Otchere, while covering the vetting of parliamentary aspirants in the Odododiodio constituency in Accra.
These acts of violence and lawlessness have prompted UTAG to demand immediate action from the IGP. The Association is concerned that if such incidents are not addressed promptly, they may set a dangerous precedent, undermining Ghana’s democratic values and media freedom.
