The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed concern over alleged attacks on journalists covering demolition exercises at La Pleasure Beach and Laboma Beach. GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour stated that the Association was disturbed by reports of assault, intimidation, and harassment of journalists while performing their duties. He cited incidents involving journalists covering the demolition exercises, where personnel of the Ghana Armed Forces were reportedly involved.
The incidents occurred during demolition exercises at the two beachfront locations. At Laboma Beach, a government post-flood mitigation task force led an operation in September to remove structures within the buffer zone of the Kpeshie Lagoon. The exercise involved the 48 Engineer Regiment of the Ghana Armed Forces and the Police Service.
A separate clearance exercise began on October 2 at La Pleasure Beach, involving personnel of the 48 Engineer Regiment and the Police. Several structures, businesses, and facilities were demolished, with National Security later identified as supervising the operation. The demolitions generated concerns over the manner in which the exercises were conducted.
The GJA President stressed that journalists must be allowed to work safely and freely, saying security operations should not become a justification for interfering with media practitioners carrying out their constitutional duty to inform the public. He emphasized the importance of accountability from the security agencies involved.
The Association has given the Ghana Armed Forces a two-week deadline to provide a comprehensive account of its investigations and indicate any disciplinary or other action taken against personnel found culpable. The GJA expects the Ghana Armed Forces to account for the alleged treatment of journalists and communicate the outcome of its investigations within the stipulated two weeks.
The demolitions have sparked concerns over inadequate prior engagement with affected stakeholders. The La Traditional Council has opposed the redevelopment of La Pleasure Beach without consultation. The GJA's concerns follow similar incidents, highlighting the need for security agencies to respect the rights of journalists.
The Ghana Journalists Association's condemnation of the alleged attacks highlights the importance of protecting journalists' rights and ensuring their safety while performing their duties. The Association's call for accountability from the security agencies involved emphasizes the need for transparency and respect for the media's constitutional role.
Key points
- GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour condemned the alleged attacks on journalists covering the demolition exercises.
- The Association has given the Ghana Armed Forces a two-week deadline to provide a comprehensive account of its investigations.
- The incidents have sparked concerns over inadequate prior engagement with affected stakeholders and the need for security agencies to respect journalists' rights.
