Mahama Calls for Reorientation of Safety Staff to Protect Reporters

Introduction

In a strong move to safeguard press freedom and ensure the safety of media professionals in Ghana, former President John Dramani Mahama has called for the urgent reorientation of security personnel across the country. Addressing a gathering at the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation (GBC) on January 8, 2026, Mahama emphasized the critical need to educate and train security officers to recognize and respect the essential role that journalists play in a functioning democracy.

This appeal comes in response to a growing number of reported assaults on media practitioners nationwide, raising serious concerns about the safety of reporters and the broader implications for freedom of expression. Mahama’s statement underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between security services and the media to promote transparency, public accountability, and the free flow of information.

This article explores the background, details, and implications of Mahama’s call for reorientation, examining why this initiative is timely and necessary for Ghana’s democratic health.

Key Points

Background

The State of Press Freedom in Ghana

Ghana has long been regarded as one of the most press-friendly countries in West Africa. Since the return to constitutional democracy in 1992, the nation has seen a proliferation of private media outlets, contributing to a vibrant and diverse media landscape. However, in recent years, concerns have emerged regarding the safety of journalists, particularly during political events, protests, and election periods.

According to reports from the Ghana Journalists Association and international watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders, there has been a noticeable increase in incidents of physical assault, verbal abuse, equipment damage, and unlawful detention of reporters. These incidents often occur when journalists are covering sensitive stories or reporting from volatile environments.

Historical Context of Security-Media Relations

The relationship between security agencies and the media in Ghana has at times been strained. While both institutions are constitutionally mandated to serve the public, misunderstandings and lack of coordination have led to confrontations. Security personnel, often trained for law enforcement and crowd control, may not fully understand the legal protections afforded to journalists under the 1992 Constitution and international human rights standards.

In several documented cases, reporters have been obstructed, threatened, or attacked by police and other security officers while performing their duties. These incidents not only endanger individual journalists but also have a chilling effect on press freedom, potentially discouraging critical reporting.

Previous Efforts and Gaps

Past governments and media organizations have made attempts to improve relations between the press and security services. Workshops, dialogues, and joint forums have been organized, but these efforts have often been ad hoc and lacking in sustained implementation. There has been no comprehensive, nationwide reorientation program specifically designed to address the root causes of conflict between these sectors.

Mahama’s proposal represents a more structured and institutionalized approach, aiming to embed media sensitivity into the core training curriculum of security personnel.

Analysis

Why Reorientation is Necessary Now

The call for reorientation comes at a critical time in Ghana’s democratic journey. With increasing political polarization and the rise of digital media, the role of journalism has become more complex and, at times, more dangerous. Journalists are not only reporting from traditional newsrooms but also from the frontlines of social unrest, corruption investigations, and public health emergencies.

Security personnel, on the other hand, face their own challenges, including inadequate resources, high-pressure situations, and sometimes unclear directives. Without proper understanding and training, these pressures can lead to overreactions when dealing with the media.

Reorientation is not just about preventing violence; it’s about building a culture of cooperation. When security officers understand that journalists are not adversaries but partners in informing the public, it can lead to more transparent and accountable governance.

Legal and Constitutional Framework

Ghana’s 1992 Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and expression, including freedom of the press, under Article 162. This provision is further reinforced by international agreements such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Ghana is a signatory.

Despite these protections, enforcement remains inconsistent. Many security officers are not adequately trained on these legal frameworks, leading to violations that go unaddressed. A reorientation program would help bridge this knowledge gap, ensuring that all security personnel are aware of their legal obligations regarding press freedom.

Impact on Democracy and Public Trust

A free and safe press is a cornerstone of any healthy democracy. When journalists can report without fear, citizens are better informed, and government actions are more likely to be scrutinized and held accountable. Conversely, when reporters are attacked or intimidated, it undermines public trust in both the media and the institutions meant to protect them.

Mahama’s initiative, if implemented effectively, could significantly enhance public confidence in both the security services and the media. It sends a clear message that attacks on journalists are not just professional misconduct but violations of democratic principles.

Practical Advice

For Security Agencies

• Integrate media sensitivity training into all levels of security force education, from basic training to advanced courses.
• Develop clear protocols for engaging with journalists during public events, protests, and emergencies.
• Establish dedicated liaison officers within police units to coordinate with media organizations.
• Ensure that all incidents of journalist abuse are thoroughly investigated and perpetrators held accountable.

For Media Organizations

• Continue advocacy efforts for journalist safety and press freedom.
• Provide members with training on how to safely interact with security personnel in high-risk situations.
• Maintain open dialogue with security agencies to build mutual understanding.
• Document and report all incidents of harassment or violence to relevant authorities and human rights bodies.

For the Public

• Support initiatives that promote press freedom and journalist safety.
• Hold both media and security institutions accountable for ethical conduct.
• Stay informed about media rights and responsibilities.
• Encourage peaceful and respectful discourse in all public interactions.

FAQ

Conclusion

President John Mahama’s call for the reorientation of security staff to protect reporters is a timely and necessary step toward strengthening Ghana’s democracy. In a world where information is power, ensuring that journalists can work without fear is not just a professional concern but a fundamental requirement for a healthy society.

This initiative goes beyond preventing violence; it seeks to build bridges between two essential pillars of public service. By fostering mutual respect and understanding, Ghana can set an example for the region and the world on how security and media can work together for the common good.

The success of this program will depend on sustained commitment, adequate resources, and active participation from all stakeholders. If implemented effectively, it has the potential to transform the media landscape in Ghana, making it safer, more transparent, and more resilient.

As Ghana continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, initiatives like this remind us that democracy is not just about elections, but about the daily protection of rights, the free flow of information, and the courage to speak truth to power.