I fear being killed because of my job – Manasseh Azure Awuni

Investigative Journalist, Manasseh Azure Awuni has admitted to being afraid of losing his life over his job considering the risks involved.

“I do investigative journalism and some people ask are you not afraid? Don’t you think somebody can harm you? They know you, you are fighting very powerful businessmen, you don’t even spare the presidents. The truth is that I am afraid. If I tell you I’m not afraid I’m lying to you.”

The anti-corruption journalist said that as a result of the corruption and thievery in the country he finds it difficult to keep quiet. He considers it a mandate to probe and unravel the ‘dirt’ in society.

“You find people stealing so much and destroying everything so you can’t keep quite.”

According to the ace journalist, thoughts of being attacked and injured occurs to him from time to time, but he keeps doing his job as an investigative journalist.

“There have been days I close from work and it comes to mind…. what if someone meets me and kills me tonight. Those thoughts occurs to me.”

He says that though he gets pressure from family members who advise him to quit his job, he has always had faith in doing the right thing for his country.

Speaking at the ‘Resolutions Youth Summit 2019’, Mr Azure advised the youth to be bold and courageous, to defy the odds for the good reason even if they are threatened over it.

“I have my family who say, don’t do this work again so I ask, if I don’t do it who will do it. You find people stealing so much and destroying everything so you can’t keep quite. If you begin to see life beyond yourself you will be bold enough to do certain things despite the fear of harm and other things. Let purpose be one of our guiding principles.”

Manasseh Azure Awuni is an investigative journalist and a writer who is known for uncovering some scandals that went on in government and among the appointees of the president. He has also won several awards including journalist of the year for his works.

He has worked on subjects including the GYEEDA Scandal, Investigative Documentary: Robbing the Assemblies, President Mahama’s Ford ‘gift’ from Burkinabe contractor etc.