01/08/2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Accra, Friday, 1 August, 2025
PRESS RELEASE:
GIBA STRONGLY CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON JOURNALISTS BY SECURITY AGENTS
The Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA) is outraged and deeply concerned by the recent attacks and brutalities meted out to a Reporter working with a member station – JoyNews, Carlos Carlony, by persons identified to be military officers believed to be from the Ghana Armed Forces, in the line of duty. These violent incidents are not only unacceptable but represent a grave threat to press freedom, the right to information, and Ghana’s democratic credentials.
Reports indicate that the JoyNews Reporter was covering the demolition exercise at a warehouse linked to businessman Daniel McKorley, popularly known as McDan on the Spintex Road in Accra. He and his cameraman were subjected to intimidation, physical assault, and unlawful detention by these elements within the security services. Such conduct is a direct affront to the principles of accountability and transparency which the media exists to uphold.
GIBA unequivocally condemns these acts and calls for and speedy, thorough, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding these attacks. We demand that all those found culpable are not shielded but held accountable in accordance with the law.
We are grateful to the Presidency for condemning this act and directing the Ghana Armed Forces to carry out investigations into this unfortunate dastardly incident. It is our hope that this will bring an end to the spate of attacks by security agents on journalists.
Freedom of the press is a foundation of every functioning democracy. Journalists must be allowed to perform their duties without fear of harassment, violence, or censorship. Any attempt to suppress the media through brute force is an attack on the rights of all citizens.
We urge the leadership of the Ghana Police Service and other relevant security agencies to also take urgent steps to reorient their personnel on the lawful and professional handling of media practitioners, especially in public spaces.
GIBA stands in solidarity with the affected journalists and media house. We will continue to defend and promote the rights and safety of all media personnel in Ghana.
Issued by:
Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA)
www.gibagh.org
