UTAG views the recent assaults on journalists as a peril to the nation’s evolving democracy

Following its 21st Biennial National Congress on Monday, the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG) has expressed concern about the recent attacks on journalists during the course of their duties, considering these incidents as a threat to the nation’s advancing democracy.

UTAG has released a statement urging the police to take action by apprehending those responsible for the assault on Akosua Otchere, a Citi News journalist.

She was attacked by alleged NDC individuals while covering the vetting of National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary aspirants in the Odododiodio constituency on Friday, October 13, 2023.

The assault, which occurred at the NDC’s Greater Accra Regional Office in South La, resulted in physical harm to Ms. Otchere and the confiscation of her mobile phone.

In the communiqué, UTAG called upon the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to ensure the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved in attacks on journalists, including those at Citi FM, media organizations, and the killing of journalists in the country.

Additionally, Citi FM and Citi TV have strongly condemned this unprovoked act of violence against a journalist, emphasizing that it constitutes a severe infringement on media freedom and journalist safety, both fundamental principles in any democratic society.

The management of Citi FM and Citi TV has filed an official complaint with the La Police Station to initiate a proper investigation into the matter and is urging the police administration to swiftly and thoroughly identify and apprehend those responsible for the assault on Ms. Otchere.

The NDC, Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), and the Information Ministry have also issued statements condemning the incident and calling for the arrest and prosecution of the attackers.