The Oti Regional Chapter of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has called for an immediate investigation into the alleged assault of a journalist by military personnel during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency executive elections in Nkwanta South.
Describing the incident as a serious attack on press freedom and democratic governance, the Association urged the Military High Command and other security authorities to identify and sanction those responsible.
In a statement signed by the Oti Regional Chairman of the GJA, Mr Kwabena Ntow, the Association said it had received credible reports that the elections were conducted peacefully but extended beyond the curfew hours currently in force in the municipality due to the prevailing security situation.
According to the statement, Mr Obrempongba Kwame Owusu, a journalist with Adom TV/FM, was allegedly assaulted by military personnel while carrying out his official duties.
The Association said the journalist was reportedly heckled and physically attacked after soldiers accused him of taking photographs and recording videos of activities at the election venue.
The GJA stated that the journalist sustained injuries and was taken to St. Joseph Hospital in Nkwanta South for medical treatment.
It further disclosed that personnel from the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), the Ghana Police Service and election officials intervened to rescue the journalist from the scene.
Beyond the attack on the media practitioner, the Association said it had also received reports that several NPP delegates, bystanders and an okada rider were allegedly harassed and assaulted during the military operation.
According to the statement, one civilian reportedly sustained injuries in a road accident while attempting to flee the area to avoid a confrontation with the security personnel.
While acknowledging the military’s role in enforcing the curfew and maintaining security in Nkwanta South, the GJA expressed concern over allegations that security personnel had used excessive force against civilians and journalists.
“The media plays a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability and peace, particularly in conflict-prone areas. Any attack on journalists is an attack on democracy and the constitutional right of citizens to access information,” the Association stated.
The GJA has therefore called on the Military High Command, the Oti Regional Security Council (REGSEC), the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) and other relevant institutions to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation into the incident.
It also demanded an unqualified apology to the injured journalist and called for officers found culpable to be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The Association further appealed to the security services to guarantee the safety of journalists carrying out their duties in the municipality and urged security personnel to respect the rights of both media practitioners and the public while enforcing curfew regulations.
The GJA reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom and pledged its continued support for the injured journalist and other victims of the incident while calling on all stakeholders to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.
