The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has expressed profound concern regarding a troubling incident involving the assault of JoyNews journalists, Carlos Calony and Jonas Dodzi Voegborlo, by National Security operatives in Accra, Ghana. This incident, which also involved the assault of an eyewitness and the unlawful detention of Calony, underscores a worrying trend of escalating violence against journalists and a blatant disregard for press freedom in the country. The attack occurred while the journalists were covering the demolition of a warehouse, allegedly connected to the McDan Group, in the Spintex area of Accra. Their attempt to document the event and gather eyewitness accounts was met with unwarranted aggression by the security personnel, raising serious questions about the state of freedom of expression and the safety of journalists in Ghana.
The details of the assault paint a disturbing picture of excessive force and intimidation. Calony recounted being physically attacked by a soldier while attempting to communicate with his producer, receiving two blows to the neck that left him in considerable pain and requiring medical attention. He and his cameraman had their equipment seized, their phones confiscated, and were subsequently detained at the National Security Secretariat, commonly known as “Blue Gate.” The eyewitness they were interviewing was also subjected to this unlawful detention. This act of detaining journalists and an eyewitness simply for documenting and discussing a public event reveals a troubling pattern of suppressing information and stifling journalistic inquiry.
This incident follows a recent pattern of similar attacks against journalists in Ghana. Occurring just a day after President John Mahama’s public call for the protection of press freedom and civic rights at an international forum, the assault starkly contradicts the president’s own pronouncements and raises questions about the sincerity of the government’s commitment to these fundamental principles. The blatant disregard for press freedom demonstrated by the National Security operatives undermines the democratic values that President Mahama espoused and casts a shadow over Ghana’s commitment to human rights. This underscores the urgent need for concrete action to address the growing concerns regarding the safety and freedom of journalists within the country.
The MFWA unequivocally condemns this assault as a grave violation of human dignity and a direct infringement upon the constitutionally guaranteed right to press freedom, as enshrined in Article 162 of Ghana’s 1992 Constitution. The Foundation has called for a swift and transparent investigation into the incident, demanding accountability from the Minister for Defence and the National Security Coordinator. While acknowledging the Presidency’s condemnation of the attacks and its call for investigations, the MFWA stresses the need for concrete measures beyond mere rhetoric. The increasing frequency of such incidents, coupled with the apparent impunity enjoyed by the perpetrators, necessitates a decisive response to curb this worrying trend.
The actions of the National Security operatives reflect a broader, systemic issue of disregard for constitutional rights and human dignity. There is a growing perception that these operatives act with excessive force and impunity, creating an environment of fear and intimidation. This culture of impunity not only endangers journalists but also undermines the public’s trust in the security apparatus. The government must take decisive steps to reign in the excesses of the National Security and ensure that its operations are conducted within the confines of the law, respecting the fundamental rights of all citizens. Failing to do so will further erode public trust and create a chilling effect on freedom of expression.
This incident underscores the vital role of the media in a democratic society and the importance of protecting journalists’ ability to report freely without fear of intimidation or violence. A free press is essential for holding power accountable and ensuring transparency in governance. The escalating attacks on journalists in Ghana signal a dangerous trend that must be addressed urgently. The government has a responsibility to protect journalists and ensure that they can carry out their duties without fear of reprisal. It must also take concrete steps to reform the National Security apparatus, ensuring that it operates within the framework of the law and respects the rights of all citizens. The future of democracy in Ghana hinges on the government’s commitment to upholding these fundamental principles.
