The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has accepted an apology from the Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Dr Richard Asiedu, over last month’s invasion and temporary shutdown of Kasoa-based Obaatanpa Radio, while urging political actors to respect press freedom and the independence of the media.
The apology comes after the GJA gave Dr Asiedu a seven day ultimatum to publicly apologise and report himself to the police over the incident, which the association described as an attack on press freedom and the safety of journalists.
In a response to the association, Dr Asiedu expressed regret over what happened and apologised to the media fraternity, particularly the management and staff of Obaatanpa Radio.
He also pledged to become an ambassador for press freedom and encouraged owners of radio stations to ensure professionalism and decorum on their platforms.
Accepting the apology, GJA President Albert Dwumfour called on politicians and other stakeholders to uphold the independence of the media and create an environment where journalists can carry out their work without intimidation or interference.
The controversy stems from an incident last month when individuals allegedly linked to the Central Regional branch of the NDC reportedly stormed the premises of Obaatanpa Radio in Kasoa and disrupted the station’s operations.
The incident forced the station off air temporarily and drew widespread condemnation from media organisations and press freedom advocates, who warned that such actions pose a serious threat to the safety of journalists and undermine media freedom in Ghana.
