Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State for Government Communications, has dismissed claims that the government is responsible for recent assaults on journalists.
The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kwabena Dwumfour, had condemned the government over the rising number of assaults on journalists, citing seven cases since President Mahama’s administration began.
However, Kwakye Ofosu described the narrative as “most regrettable” and unfair to President Mahama and the government. He emphasized that the government does not condone attacks on journalists and is committed to protecting their rights.
“It was claimed that seven journalists had been attacked and statements were made that sought to create the impression that there is some design by Mahama and his government to attack journalists. It is a most regrettable narrative. We do not think that it is fair to President Mahama, it is fair to the government, it is even fair to the GJA or even to the journalists who are reported to have been attacked,” Kwakye Ofosu indicated.
Kwakye Ofosu revealed that he had engaged with the President of the GJA to discuss the issues and find a resolution. They agreed to have a direct interaction between his office and the GJA to address any concerns that journalists may have.
“I sought to find out exactly what informed that press conference and why other alternative approaches were not adopted to discuss the matters with the view to seeking redress for those who might have been affected. After the conversation, we agreed that early next week there should be a direct interaction between my office and the GJA,” he explained.
The Minister expressed dismay at the way the narrative was presented, creating a misleading impression about the government and President Mahama. He emphasized President Mahama’s good standing with the GJA and his commitment to protecting journalists’ rights.
“All of you are aware that President Mahama is an easy-going, down-to-earth, affable individual who relates well with all manner of people. He is a member of the GJA in good standing. Essentially, he is one of you and therefore he will be the last person to supervise a dispensation where journalists are attacked,” he stressed.
Kwakye Ofosu also refuted the notion that the government was unhappy with certain journalists and was carrying out reprisals against them. He stated that the government values the role of journalists in democracy and is committed to ensuring their safety and protection.
