By Patrick Ofoe Nudzi
Accra, Sept. 6, GNA – The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has condemned the assault by military personnel on Adom FM and TV reporter, Obrempongba Benjamin Kwame Owusu, during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency elections at Nkwanta South, Oti Region.
The incident occurred on July 11, 2026, while Mr Owusu was carrying out his professional duties during the elections.
He was reportedly manhandled by military personnel, resulting in his branded Adom T-shirt being torn.
Speaking at a press conference in Accra on Friday, the GJA President, Mr Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, said the journalist was allegedly confronted and physically assaulted by soldiers enforcing the curfew in the area after being accused of taking photographs and filming the proceedings.
He said Mr Owusu was rescued through the intervention of personnel from the Police, the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI), and other officials at the scene. He was subsequently admitted to the St. Joseph Hospital for treatment after sustaining injuries.
The GJA President noted that the elections had been largely peaceful until the commencement of curfew hours, when tensions reportedly arose as journalists and other residents attempted to return home.
Mr Dwumfour also expressed concern over reports of similar harassment involving some delegates and onlookers.
He cited a separate incident in which a senior high school graduate and an ‘okada’ rider reportedly sustained injuries in a road accident while rushing home during the curfew.
The GJA President said journalists were not criminals for taking photographs, recording events, or reporting on matters of public interest.
He called on the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service to investigate the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable was held accountable.
He further called for stronger measures to protect journalists, saying the Nkwanta South incident and similar cases highlighted the urgent need to safeguard media practitioners.
Mr Dwumfour reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to defending press freedom, freedom of expression, and the safety of journalists.
He emphasised that journalists must be able to cover elections, public events, and issues of national importance without fear of intimidation or attack.
“The safety of journalists is an essential condition for a free and democratic society. The media plays a critical role in informing citizens, promoting accountability, and strengthening democracy. The rights of journalists must be respected,” he said.
Mr Dwumfour pledged the Association’s continued engagement with security agencies, the Government, and other stakeholders to improve the protection of journalists and strengthen understanding between security personnel and the media.
He also urged journalists to remain professional and comply with lawful requirements when covering sensitive assignments, while insisting that security restrictions and curfews must be enforced lawfully, fairly, and proportionately.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe