Accra, May 30, GNA – The Greater Accra Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) on Tuesday expressed concern about a recent assault on one of its members, Ms Joyce Danso, a Reporter with the Ghana News Agency.
Mr Michael Gberbie, Official of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana allegedly assaulted Miss Danso during the Institute’s graduation ceremony in Accra on Thursday May 25 2006.
The Chapter said it considered the alleged assault as unacceptable to the practice of modern journalism, saying: “The action is most reprehensible and must be condemned by all well meaning people.” A statement signed by Mr Gideon Sackitey, Greater Accra Regional GJA Chairman, said it regarded the assault as an affront and a hindrance to the practice of free media in the country, “a trend which if not checked could result in the situation where journalists could be intimidated and made to succumb in the course of performing their duties”. The Chapter, therefore, asked other institutions to work at protecting the media since “we are partners in development and the nation’s interest is our goal”.
The statement noted that “as the nation strives to develop its infant democracy, this paradise of a nation we all ascribe to, cannot be achieved without a free and unhindered media regime, except where reputations are at stake and even there, tolerance must prevail”. The statement said while recent experiences with most programme organisers had been cordial, “there is the need for others to emulate the strong bond that had developed over the years”.
The statement urged journalists to stand up for what is right and be professional in their approach. “Our dignity cannot be taken for granted”.
The Chapter asked the Inspector General of Police to use his good offices to ensure that the case was investigated and justice done to all.
Source: GhanaWeb
