WAES calls for investigation into alleged attack of journalist through Fire Service officials at Kasoa promotion – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

In a significant development concerning press freedom and media safety in Ghana, the West Africa Editors Society (WAES) has formally called for an urgent investigation into allegations that officials from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) physically assaulted a journalist at the Kasoa New Market in the Central Region. The incident, which has drawn widespread condemnation, occurred on January 4, 2026, and has reignited concerns about the safety of journalists covering public emergencies and security operations.

The targeted journalist, Samuel Addo of the Class Media Group, was reportedly attacked while covering a fire incident at the market. According to WAES, the incident involved approximately ten GNFS personnel who allegedly seized Addo’s phone and physically assaulted him, despite his clear identification as a working journalist. The case has sparked national debate on the protection of press rights and the need for accountability within security agencies.

Key Points

Background

Ghana’s Press Freedom Landscape

Ghana has long been recognized as one of Africa’s most stable democracies with a relatively free press. The country consistently ranks among the top nations in Sub-Saharan Africa for press freedom according to various international indices. However, incidents of violence against journalists, particularly those covering sensitive topics or emergency situations, have periodically raised concerns about the practical implementation of these constitutional protections.

The 1992 Ghanaian Constitution guarantees freedom of the press under Article 162, which states: “Freedom and independence of the media are hereby guaranteed.” Despite these legal protections, journalists in Ghana have occasionally faced intimidation, threats, and physical attacks while performing their professional duties.

Previous Incidents

This latest incident is not isolated. Over the past decade, there have been several documented cases of journalists facing physical harm while covering public events, protests, and emergency situations. These incidents have typically involved security personnel or law enforcement officers who have allegedly overstepped their authority in restricting media coverage.

The Kasoa market incident represents a particularly concerning pattern where emergency service personnel, who typically operate under strict protocols, are alleged to have violated the rights of a working journalist.

Analysis

Legal Framework and Violations

The alleged assault raises several legal questions under Ghanaian law. Firstly, the right to freedom of expression and press freedom is enshrined in the 1992 Constitution. Secondly, the Media Commission Act of 1993 (Act 449) provides additional protections for media practitioners. Thirdly, the Criminal Offences Act includes provisions against assault and battery.

If the allegations are proven true, the GNFS officials may have violated multiple legal provisions, including:
– Constitutional rights to freedom of expression
– Media Commission regulations protecting journalists
– Criminal law provisions against assault

Impact on Media Safety

This incident has significant implications for media safety in Ghana. When security personnel attack journalists covering public events, it creates a chilling effect that can discourage other reporters from covering similar situations. This is particularly problematic when it comes to covering emergency services and public safety incidents, which are matters of legitimate public interest.

The attack also raises questions about the training and protocols within the GNFS regarding interactions with the media. In democratic societies, the media plays a crucial role in providing oversight of public institutions, including emergency services.

Institutional Response Patterns

The initial response from GNFS Public Relations Officer Desmond Ackah, as reported by Starr FM, suggested that the officials only seized the journalist’s phone because he was recording without permission. This explanation has been challenged by WAES, which correctly points out that journalists do not require prior approval to record events in public spaces.

This response pattern is not uncommon in similar incidents, where security agencies initially justify their actions based on operational protocols or security concerns, often without fully considering the constitutional rights of journalists.

Practical Advice

For Journalists

Documentation and Safety Protocols:

• Always carry valid press identification when covering public events
• Document interactions with security personnel with timestamps and witness information
• Know your legal rights regarding recording in public spaces
• Report any threats or intimidation to media advocacy groups immediately
• Consider carrying a personal safety device when covering potentially volatile situations

For Media Organizations

Institutional Protections:

• Ensure all staff members have valid press credentials
• Establish clear protocols for covering emergency situations
• Maintain relationships with media advocacy groups like WAES
• Provide legal support for staff members facing threats or attacks
• Implement safety training programs for field reporters

For Security Agencies

Professional Conduct Guidelines:

• Train personnel on press freedom laws and journalist rights
• Establish clear protocols for interactions with media during operations
• Designate media liaison officers for emergency situations
• Implement accountability mechanisms for violations of press rights
• Cooperate fully with investigations into alleged misconduct

FAQ

Conclusion

The alleged assault on Samuel Addo by Ghana National Fire Service officials represents a serious challenge to press freedom in Ghana. While WAES has appropriately called for a thorough investigation, this incident underscores the need for broader reforms to ensure the safety of journalists covering public events and emergency operations.

For Ghana to maintain its reputation as a democratic society with a free press, it must ensure that all security agencies understand and respect the constitutional rights of journalists. This requires not only investigating specific incidents but also implementing comprehensive training programs and accountability mechanisms within security institutions.

The case also highlights the importance of continued advocacy by organizations like WAES and the need for media organizations to prioritize the safety of their staff. Ultimately, protecting press freedom benefits not just journalists but the entire society by ensuring transparency and accountability in public institutions.