GJA Demands Probe Into Alleged Attack on Kasoa Radio Station Linked to NDC Officials

The Central Region Branch of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has issued a strong condemnation following an alleged attack on Obatanpa Radio, a station based in Kasoa, describing the incident as an unacceptable assault on press freedom and democratic values.

According to the GJA, Mr Bernard Mireku, a producer at the station, was allegedly physically assaulted and the radio station was temporarily forced off air after it aired commentary on internal NDC affairs in the Awutu Senya East Constituency. The Association noted that the alleged involvement of Dr Richard Asiedu, the NDC's Central Regional Chairman, and Mr Seth Banini, the Municipal Chief Executive for Awutu Senya East, would constitute a grave threat to media independence if proven.

GJA Calls for Accountability and Police Action

In a statement signed by Regional Chairman Mr Kingsley Nana Boadu, the GJA urged the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation, with full prosecution of anyone found responsible — irrespective of political standing or affiliation. The Association also called on the leadership of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) to publicly condemn the attack, apologise to the affected journalists and take disciplinary steps against any party officials implicated.

The GJA invoked Article 162 of Ghana's 1992 Constitution, which guarantees media freedom and editorial independence, stressing that no political actor or public official holds the right to intimidate journalists or interfere with a media house's lawful operations over disagreement with editorial content. The statement reminded all parties that legal avenues — including petitioning the National Media Commission or pursuing court action — exist for anyone aggrieved by media content.

Solidarity with Obatanpa Radio

The Association declared its full solidarity with the management and staff of Obatanpa Radio, warning that an attack on any single journalist amounts to an attack on the entire media fraternity and the public's constitutional right to information. While pledging to defend journalists against unlawful attacks, the GJA equally called on media practitioners to maintain the highest standards of accuracy, fairness and ethical journalism in their work.

"We call on all political actors to exercise tolerance, respect press freedom and resolve grievances through lawful and democratic means," Mr Boadu said, urging calm and adherence to constitutional principles across Ghana's political landscape.