Legal Green Association Condemns Alleged Army Attack on Media General Journalist in Walewale

Introduction

In a concerning development for press freedom in Ghana, the Legal Green Association has issued a strong condemnation of an alleged assault on a Media General journalist by members of the Ghana Armed Forces in Walewale, North East Region. This incident, which reportedly occurred on January 26, 2026, has sparked alarm among human rights advocates and media organizations across the country.

Key Points

Background

The alleged incident involves Mr. Solomon Kwame Kanaluwe, the North East Regional Correspondent for Media General, who was reportedly assaulted while lawfully performing his journalistic duties. According to the Legal Green Association, which issued a formal statement on Friday, the attack represents a serious violation of constitutional rights and press freedom principles that Ghana has long championed.

The Legal Green Association, a prominent civil society organization focused on environmental law and human rights, has taken a strong stance against what it describes as an abuse of power by security forces. Their intervention highlights the growing concern over the safety of journalists and the potential chilling effect such incidents can have on media freedom and public accountability.

Analysis

Constitutional and Legal Implications

The Legal Green Association’s statement emphasizes several critical legal and constitutional issues at stake:

**Protection of Press Freedom**: The 1992 Constitution of Ghana explicitly guarantees freedom of the press and protects journalists from interference while performing their lawful duties. Article 21(1)(a) specifically provides for freedom of expression, which includes press freedom.

**Criminal Law Considerations**: The alleged assault constitutes a criminal offense under Section 84 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29). This provision clearly states that no person, including members of security services, is above the law.

**Military Conduct Standards**: The Armed Forces Act, 1962 (Act 105) requires military personnel to maintain discipline, professionalism, and respect for civilian authority. Any conduct inconsistent with these standards must face appropriate sanctions.

Broader Context of Military-Civilian Relations

The Legal Green Association’s statement also draws attention to what it describes as “growing reports of alleged military brutality against civilians and journalists during internal security operations.” This observation suggests a concerning pattern that could undermine public confidence and civil-military relations in Ghana.

Such incidents, if left unaddressed, risk creating an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship among journalists, potentially compromising the media’s crucial role as a watchdog and facilitator of public discourse. The normalization of excessive force by state security actors poses a significant threat to democratic stability and the rule of law.

Practical Advice

For journalists and media organizations operating in potentially volatile environments, the following precautions are recommended:

1. **Safety Training**: Ensure all field journalists receive comprehensive safety and security training, including how to handle encounters with security forces.

2. **Documentation**: Always carry proper identification and press credentials, and document any incidents thoroughly with photos, videos, and witness statements when safe to do so.

3. **Emergency Protocols**: Establish clear emergency protocols and communication channels for journalists working in the field.

4. **Legal Support**: Maintain relationships with legal professionals who can provide immediate assistance if journalists face legal challenges or harassment.

5. **Union Support**: Engage with journalist unions and press freedom organizations that can provide advocacy and support in cases of intimidation or assault.

For the general public and civil society organizations, supporting press freedom initiatives and demanding accountability for attacks on journalists are essential steps in preserving democratic values.

FAQ

Conclusion

The alleged attack on Media General journalist Solomon Kwame Kanaluwe represents a serious challenge to press freedom and the rule of law in Ghana. The Legal Green Association’s strong condemnation and call for accountability highlight the critical importance of protecting journalists and maintaining the constitutional guarantees that underpin Ghana’s democracy.

As the country awaits the results of any investigation into this incident, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to safeguard press freedom, ensure military accountability, and strengthen civil-military relations. The international community, civil society organizations, and all Ghanaians have a stake in ensuring that journalists can perform their essential democratic function without fear of violence or intimidation.

The incident also underscores the broader challenge of balancing security operations with respect for human rights and constitutional freedoms. Moving forward, sustained attention to these issues will be crucial for maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a stable democracy with strong press freedom protections.