Internal disciplinary measures inadequate – GJA urges IGP to arrest Class FM journalist’s attackers – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

On January 6, 2026, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) made a strong public statement demanding that the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) take immediate and decisive action to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the physical attack on Mr. Samuel Addo, a journalist with Class FM, during a fire incident at Kasoa Market. The GJA emphasized that internal disciplinary measures alone are insufficient and that the attack constitutes a criminal act that must be adjudicated in a court of law. This incident has reignited debates on press freedom, journalist safety, and the accountability of public institutions in Ghana.

The GJA’s call for justice underscores the broader issue of protecting media professionals who report on public emergencies and critical events. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the incident, the GJA’s demands, the legal implications, and practical recommendations for ensuring the safety of journalists in Ghana.

Key Points

Background

Incident Overview

On Sunday, January 5, 2026, a fire broke out at Kasoa Market in the Central Region of Ghana. Samuel Addo, a correspondent for Class FM, was on the scene reporting on the incident when he was physically attacked by unidentified individuals. According to eyewitnesses and the journalist’s own account, the attackers attempted to prevent him from documenting the event, which is a common occurrence when authorities or individuals seek to control the narrative around public incidents.

The attack on Mr. Addo is not an isolated incident. Journalists in Ghana and across Africa often face physical threats, intimidation, and obstruction when covering sensitive events, especially those involving public safety, corruption, or political issues. The incident at Kasoa Market underscores the vulnerability of media professionals who operate in high-risk environments without adequate protection.

Ghana Journalists Association (GJA)

The Ghana Journalists Association is the leading professional body representing journalists in Ghana. Founded in 1949, the GJA advocates for press freedom, ethical journalism, and the protection of journalists’ rights. The association plays a critical role in monitoring violations against the press and lobbying for legal and institutional reforms to enhance media safety.

In recent years, the GJA has repeatedly called on the government and law enforcement agencies to take stronger action against attacks on journalists. The association has also worked with international organizations such as UNESCO and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) to promote a safer environment for media practitioners.

Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS)

The Ghana National Fire Service is responsible for fire prevention, firefighting, and emergency response across the country. Led by Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, the GNFS operates under the Ministry of Interior. While the GNFS is primarily a technical and emergency response agency, it is also subject to public scrutiny, especially during high-profile incidents such as the Kasoa Market fire.

The GJA’s demand for the GNFS to condemn the attack and take internal disciplinary action reflects the public expectation that state institutions should uphold the rule of law and protect fundamental rights, including freedom of the press.

Analysis

Legal Framework for Press Freedom in Ghana

Ghana’s 1992 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, including freedom of the press, under Article 21(1)(a) and Article 162. The constitution explicitly states that “freedom and independence of the media are hereby guaranteed.” However, these rights are not absolute and are subject to certain limitations, such as national security, public order, and public morality.

Despite these constitutional protections, journalists in Ghana frequently face legal and extralegal challenges. Defamation laws, cybercrime legislation, and sedition charges have been used to intimidate and silence critical voices. Additionally, physical attacks on journalists often go unpunished due to weak enforcement, lack of political will, or institutional complicity.

Criminal Nature of the Attack

The GJA’s assertion that the attack on Samuel Addo is a criminal matter is legally sound. Under Ghanaian law, assault, battery, and obstruction of a person performing their duties are criminal offenses. If the attackers are identified and apprehended, they can be charged under the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), and related statutes.

Furthermore, interfering with a journalist’s work, especially during a public emergency, may constitute an obstruction of justice or a violation of the right to information. The United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity recognizes that attacks on media professionals undermine democratic governance and the public’s right to know.

Institutional Accountability and Impunity

The GJA’s call for the IGP to act swiftly reflects widespread concerns about institutional accountability and impunity in Ghana. While the police have the mandate to investigate and prosecute crimes, their response to attacks on journalists has often been slow or ineffective. This lack of action emboldens perpetrators and creates a culture of impunity.

The association’s demand for the GNFS to take internal disciplinary measures is also significant. Public institutions have a duty to maintain discipline among their personnel and to ensure that their actions do not violate citizens’ rights. If members of the GNFS were involved in the attack, the service must take responsibility and apply appropriate sanctions, including dismissal where warranted.

Press Freedom and Democratic Governance

A free and independent press is a cornerstone of democratic governance. Journalists play a vital role in holding power to account, informing the public, and promoting transparency. When journalists are attacked or intimidated, it not only violates their rights but also undermines the public’s right to information.

Ghana has made significant progress in media freedom since the return to democratic rule in 1992. The country is often cited as a model for press freedom in West Africa. However, challenges remain, particularly in ensuring the safety of journalists in the field. The incident at Kasoa Market serves as a reminder that legal protections on paper must be matched by practical enforcement and institutional support.

Practical Advice

For Journalists

• Personal Safety: Always assess the risk before covering volatile situations. Whenever possible, work in pairs or teams.
• Documentation: Record incidents of intimidation or violence with photos, videos, and witness statements.
• Reporting: Immediately report attacks to the police and notify your employer and the GJA.
• Legal Awareness: Know your rights under the Constitution and relevant laws. Seek legal advice if necessary.
• Networking: Maintain contact with colleagues, media rights organizations, and security contacts.

For Media Houses

• Safety Protocols: Develop and implement safety guidelines for field reporting.
• Insurance: Provide health and life insurance coverage for journalists.
• Training: Conduct regular training on risk assessment, first aid, and digital security.
• Support: Offer legal and psychological support to journalists who face threats or attacks.
• Advocacy: Work with the GJA and other organizations to advocate for stronger protections.

For Law Enforcement

• Swift Action: Investigate attacks on journalists promptly and transparently.
• Training: Train officers on the importance of press freedom and how to protect journalists.
• Coordination: Work with media organizations to improve response mechanisms.
• Accountability: Ensure that officers who fail to protect journalists are held accountable.
• Public Statements: Issue clear statements condemning violence against the press.

For Government and Public Institutions

• Policy Reform: Review and amend laws that restrict press freedom.
• Protection Mechanisms: Establish a national protection mechanism for journalists at risk.
• Public Awareness: Launch campaigns to promote respect for press freedom.
• International Cooperation: Engage with UNESCO and other bodies to strengthen media safety.
• Monitoring: Set up an independent body to monitor attacks on journalists and track progress.

FAQ

Conclusion

The attack on Class FM journalist Samuel Addo during the Kasoa Market fire is a stark reminder of the risks that journalists face in the line of duty. The Ghana Journalists Association’s call for the Inspector-General of Police to arrest and prosecute the attackers is not only a demand for justice but also a plea for the protection of press freedom and democratic values.

While internal disciplinary measures may address organizational misconduct, they are insufficient when criminal acts are involved. The rule of law must prevail, and those who attack journalists must face the full consequences of their actions. At the same time, public institutions like the Ghana National Fire Service must uphold ethical standards and take responsibility for the conduct of their personnel.

Ensuring the safety of journalists requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, law enforcement, media houses, civil society, and the public. By strengthening legal protections, improving enforcement, and fostering a culture of respect for the press, Ghana can reaffirm its commitment to democracy and human rights.