The Ghana Police Service has taken swift action in response to a viral video depicting a police officer assaulting a journalist during a parliamentary election re-run in the Ablekuma North constituency. The incident, which took place on Friday, July 7, 2025, unfolded amidst a tense political climate as voters returned to the polls at 19 stations following months of contestation over the December 2024 parliamentary election results. The video capturing the alleged assault quickly spread across social media, igniting widespread public outrage and prompting calls for accountability and justice.
The police officer involved has been identified and interdicted, effectively suspending him from his duties pending a full investigation. This action underscores the seriousness with which the Ghana Police Service is treating the incident. The officer has been referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB), the internal body responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct within the police force. The PPSB will conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the assault and submit its findings for further action.
The victim of the assault has been identified as Banahene Agyekum, a journalist with GH One Television. He was reportedly covering the election re-run at one of the polling centers when the incident occurred. Media rights advocates and civil society organizations have strongly condemned the assault, emphasizing the crucial role of journalists in covering elections and holding authorities accountable. They have called for swift justice and the implementation of measures to protect journalists and ensure their safety while performing their duties, particularly during politically charged events.
This incident has reignited concerns about police conduct during elections in Ghana, highlighting the need for stronger mechanisms to ensure accountability and protect the rights of journalists and election observers. The alleged assault underscores the vulnerability of journalists in carrying out their professional responsibilities, especially in politically sensitive contexts. The incident has also raised broader questions about the training and oversight of police officers deployed for election duties. The public, along with media organizations, is demanding a transparent and thorough investigation to determine the full extent of the officer’s actions and the underlying factors that contributed to the incident.
The Ghana Police Service has issued a public statement assuring the public of its commitment to transparency and a comprehensive investigation. The statement, signed by Assistant Superintendent of Police Richmond Mensah, emphasized that the incident is being treated with utmost seriousness. The police have pledged to keep the public informed about the progress of the investigation and any subsequent actions taken against the officer involved. This commitment to transparency is vital for rebuilding public trust and demonstrating accountability within the police force.
The assault on Banahene Agyekum serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by journalists in reporting on elections and the importance of ensuring their safety and protection. The ability of the press to freely and safely report on electoral processes is fundamental to a healthy democracy. The outcome of the investigation and the subsequent actions taken by the Ghana Police Service will be closely watched by media organizations, human rights groups, and the public. This incident provides an opportunity to strengthen mechanisms for police accountability and reinforce the commitment to press freedom and the safety of journalists in Ghana. It also underscores the need for continuous training and sensitization of security personnel on the importance of respecting the rights of journalists and other election observers.
