The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has expressed strong dissatisfaction with the conviction and sentencing of veteran journalist Larry Alans Dogbe, describing the High Court’s ruling as harsh, unreasonable and disproportionate.
In a statement issued on Thursday, June 25, 2026, and signed by its President, David Tamakloe, PRINPAG said it had taken note of the judgment delivered by the High Court in Accra in the case of Kevin Okyere v. Larry Alans Dogbe, which resulted in Mr. Dogbe being found guilty of contempt of court.
According to the association, the ruling raises serious concerns, particularly regarding issues surrounding substituted service, disputed notice and the constitutional protections guaranteed to journalists under Articles 162 and 165 of the 1992 Constitution.
PRINPAG noted that Larry Dogbe is a respected journalist whose contributions to public-interest journalism have played a significant role in promoting accountability and transparency in Ghana.
“Mr. Larry Dogbe is not only a senior journalist but also a respected member of our fraternity whose work has contributed significantly to public-interest journalism,” the statement said.
The association disclosed that it is actively engaging the legal team of the Herald Newspaper editor to explore all available legal avenues, including appellate processes, in a bid to challenge the judgment and seek redress.
PRINPAG warned that the conviction could set a troubling precedent for media freedom and responsible journalism in the country if not properly addressed through the legal process.
While reaffirming its commitment to the rule of law, the association stressed that journalists should not be subjected to punitive sanctions for carrying out their constitutional mandate of informing the public, especially on matters involving the use of public resources and issues of public accountability.
The association further assured members of the media fraternity and the public that it would continue to monitor developments in the case and provide updates as necessary.
The conviction of Larry Dogbe has sparked debate within media circles, with press freedom advocates closely watching the next steps in the legal process and the potential implications for journalism practice in Ghana.
