GJA condemns alleged assault on Obatanpa Radio producer, closure of station

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Central Regional branch, has condemned the alleged assault on a producer of Obatanpa Radio and the reported temporary closure of the station at Kasoa.

In a statement issued on June 28, 2026, and signed by the Central Regional Chairman, Kingsley Nana Buadu, the Association described the incident as a serious threat to press freedom and democratic values.

According to the GJA, the incident followed comments made on internal matters of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Awutu Senya East Constituency.

“The reported involvement of the NDC Central Regional Chairman, Mr. Richard Asiedu, the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, Mr. Seth Banini and others, if established, constitutes a serious attack on press freedom, media independence and Ghana’s democratic values,” portions of the statement said.

The Association stressed that no individual or political group has the right to intimidate journalists or interfere with the work of media houses.

“No political party, public official or individual has the right to intimidate journalists or interfere with the lawful operations of a media organisation because of disagreement with its editorial content,” the GJA stated.

The GJA also called on the Ghana Police Service to investigate the matter.

“We call on the Ghana Police Service to conduct a swift, impartial and thorough investigation and prosecute anyone found culpable, regardless of political affiliation or position,” the statement added.

The Association further urged political leaders to act responsibly and condemn the incident.

“We urge the leadership of the NDC to publicly condemn the incident, apologise to the victims, Obatanpa Radio and the media fraternity and take appropriate disciplinary action against any party officials found responsible,” it said.

The GJA noted that there are proper ways to address concerns about media content, including seeking redress through the National Media Commission or the courts.

“Resorting to violence, intimidation or shutting down a media outlet is unlawful and unacceptable,” the statement emphasised.

While defending journalists, the Association also reminded media practitioners to uphold professionalism.

“While the GJA will always defend journalists against unlawful attacks, it equally expects media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of accuracy, fairness, balance and ethical journalism in the discharge of their duties,” the GJA said.

The Association expressed solidarity with the management and staff of Obatanpa Radio, adding that “an attack on one journalist is an attack on the entire media fraternity.”

In conclusion, the statement called on all stakeholders to respect press freedom and resolve issues through lawful means.

MAG/VPO

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