| The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has expressed its full support for the decision made by the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA) to impose a media blackout on the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, in response to his assault on a journalist from Citi FM/TV.
Freedom of the press is a fundamental pillar of democracy, and any act of violence or intimidation against journalists must be strongly condemned. In a Press Statement issued February 6, the PRINPAG said “The incident involving Farouk Aliu Mahama (MP) is not only a violation of the rights of the journalist involved but also an attack on the principles of free speech and transparency.” “PRINPAG believes that imposing a media blackout on individuals who engage in such reprehensible behavior is a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the press and ensure the safety of journalists in Ghana,” the Statement noted. The Statement issued by Jeoege Wilson Kingson, Ag. Executive Secretary of PRINPAG, commended the GJA for taking a firm stand against impunity and for prioritizing the protection of its members. “We call on all stakeholders, including political leaders in the country, to respect the role of the media as watchdogs of society and to refrain from actions that undermine their independence or threaten their safety,” the PRINPAG said, adding, “It is imperative that journalists are able to carry out their duties without fear of reprisal or violence.” It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting press freedom and defending the rights of journalists in Ghana. “We will continue to work closely with the GJA, Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and other relevant organizations to safeguard the principles of free speech and ensure accountability at all levels of society. |
