President John Mahama on Thursday denounced the assault of a JoyNews journalist and a civilian by soldiers during a recent demolition operation in Spintex, pledging accountability and emphasizing his commitment to press freedom as a member of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).
Speaking at the swearing-in of the final group of deputy ministers, Mr. Mahama described the conduct of the security personnel involved as “unacceptable” and said he had directed that a full investigation be carried out, with disciplinary action to follow where necessary.
“Such conduct is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” Mr. Mahama said. “I have instructed that the incident be thoroughly investigated and that the officers involved be sanctioned accordingly.”
Mr. Mahama, who holds a membership card with the GJA, framed the incident as not just a breach of protocol but a challenge to democratic values. “I will not preside over a government that abuses or intimidates journalists in the lawful exercise of their duty,” he said. “A free and responsible press is indispensable to our democracy.”
In an effort to defuse growing tensions between the media and security agencies, the president announced plans to convene a high-level meeting between the heads of the security services and GJA leadership. The objective: to develop an orientation program aimed at reframing journalists not as adversaries but as collaborators in national development.
The assault on JoyNews journalist Carlos Calony drew widespread criticism from media advocacy groups and civil society, amid broader concerns about press freedom and the use of force by state security personnel.
Beyond the media-security agenda, Mr. Mahama also touched on the country’s ongoing fiscal adjustments. He said recent cuts to fuel allowances for government officials have begun yielding results, with the savings being channeled into education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
“The savings accrued from these cost-cutting measures are being redirected into critical sectors such as education, health, and infrastructure development,” he noted.
The president’s remarks come at a time when his administration is under scrutiny both for economic management and for ensuring the protection of civil liberties ahead of the upcoming general elections.
