Private legal practitioner Samson Lardy Anyenini has condemned the assault of a Class Media Group (CMG) journalist by officers of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), describing it as an attack on press freedom and a violation of constitutional rights. He has demanded the immediate interdiction of the service’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), DO II Desmond Ackah, and the prosecution of the officers involved.
The incident occurred on Monday, January 5, 2026, amid the chaotic aftermath of the Kasoa New Market fire. Video footage showed GNFS personnel physically manhandling the reporter while he was filming the firefighting operations. The officers reportedly also seized the journalist’s recording equipment, triggering nationwide condemnation.
Addressing the incident, Mr Anyenini argued that the assault went beyond physical aggression, striking at the very foundation of Ghana’s democracy. Citing Article 21(1)(f) of the 1992 Constitution, he reminded the public that Ghanaians have a right to information, with journalists serving as its custodians.
“This was a very dastardly assault. In a democracy, such acts cannot be allowed. Journalists are obliged to report matters that citizens have the right to know,” he stated, emphasising that the public remains the sovereign, and journalists are their intermediaries in accessing information.
Mr Anyenini criticised the GNFS PRO for defending the officers’ conduct despite clear visual evidence of the assault, calling it proof of unfitness for the role. He urged the service’s leadership to interdict Ackah and provide him with remedial training in public relations and constitutional obligations.
The lawyer also clarified a common misconception, noting that journalists are not required to seek permission to film in public spaces. He condemned the seizure of the journalist’s devices as unlawful, stressing that even law enforcement officers cannot confiscate equipment unless it constitutes evidence of a crime.
Describing the GNFS officers’ conduct as “absolutely barbaric,” Mr Anyenini demanded accountability, insisting that violence against a media professional performing a constitutional duty is unacceptable.
“This was criminal and wrong at every turn. No officer has the right to physically assault journalists. It must not be entertained in this republic,” he concluded.
The call for action adds to mounting pressure on the GNFS to uphold press freedom and ensure the protection of journalists covering public events.
