Paragraph 1: Refuting Claims of Abandonment
Reports circulating in various media outlets alleging that ten junior police officers have abandoned their lawsuit against the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) are categorically false. The officers, through a statement issued on January 1, 2025, clarified that they have not relinquished their legal pursuit but have strategically withdrawn their initial suit to amend and strengthen their arguments before re-filing. This action, a common legal tactic, aims to bolster their case and ensure a more robust presentation of their grievances before the court. The statement, signed by Nana Ewusi Kwansah, emphasizes that this temporary withdrawal signifies a commitment to justice, not surrender.
Paragraph 2: Challenging Media Bias and Misinformation
The statement also criticizes sections of the media for propagating a biased narrative that favors the IGP and the Police Administration. It argues that the reports, primarily disseminated through social media and online platforms, present a skewed perspective, lacking balanced reporting and failing to incorporate the officers’ viewpoint. This one-sided portrayal not only misleads the public but also raises concerns about journalistic ethics and the integrity of the information being circulated. The statement questions the basis upon which the narrative of abandonment was constructed, suggesting a potential deliberate attempt to mislead the public and discredit the officers’ legal efforts.
Paragraph 3: Highlighting Procedural Facts and Inaction by the Defendants
To further clarify the situation, the statement highlights key procedural facts: First, the IGP and the Police Administration have yet to file any official response to the amended suit. This inaction raises questions about their preparedness to address the allegations against them. Second, the defendants’ legal team’s only appearance in court was on December 16, 2024, where they merely requested an adjournment to February 2025. The statement argues that this request for an adjournment would be illogical if the case had indeed been abandoned, further supporting the officers’ claim of a strategic legal maneuver.
Paragraph 4: Emphasizing Legal Strategy and Commitment to Justice
The withdrawal and subsequent amendment of the initial suit are underscored as standard legal practice, enabling plaintiffs to refine their arguments and present a more compelling case. This strategic decision, the statement emphasizes, demonstrates the officers’ commitment to pursuing justice through appropriate legal channels rather than an abandonment of their claims. The officers maintain their resolve to hold the IGP accountable for the alleged unlawful transfers and seek redress through the judicial system.
Paragraph 5: A Call for Responsible Journalism and Transparency
The statement concludes with a plea for responsible journalism and a commitment to truth and fairness. It calls on journalists to uphold ethical standards, engage with all parties involved in legal disputes, and present balanced accounts to avoid misinforming the public. The dissemination of inaccurate information not only undermines media credibility but also erodes public trust in the judicial process. It emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between strategic legal maneuvers and case abandonment, advocating for accurate reporting to maintain public confidence in the pursuit of justice.
Paragraph 6: Looking Ahead and Addressing Misinformation
The statement extends New Year greetings while emphasizing the importance of combating misinformation in 2025 and beyond. It calls for vigilance against propaganda and highlights the critical role of the media in promoting transparency and accountability. The officers involved in the lawsuit affirm their commitment to seeking justice through legitimate means and denounce the attempts to misrepresent their actions. The statement concludes by urging all Ghanaians to uphold truth, fairness, and progress in the pursuit of justice and a more informed society.
