The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has strongly condemned the assault on a journalist with the Class Media Group, describing the attack as a grave affront to press freedom and Ghana’s democratic values.
The journalist, Mr. Samuel Addo, was reportedly attacked while carrying out his professional duties, an incident PRINPAG says was unprovoked and wholly unacceptable.
In a statement issued on the matter, the association warned that any form of intimidation or violence against journalists poses a serious threat to the free flow of information and the rule of law.
PRINPAG stressed that the assault constitutes a direct violation of press freedom as enshrined in Article 162 of the 1992 Constitution, which guarantees the independence of the media and protects journalists from interference in the performance of their work.
According to the association, attacks on media practitioners not only endanger individual journalists but also weaken the democratic foundations of the state.
Calling for urgent action, PRINPAG appealed to the Ghana Police Service and the Ministry of the Interior to institute a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. The association insisted that those responsible must be identified and made to face the full rigours of the law.
“Delivering justice in this case is essential not only for Mr. Addo, but also to send a clear signal that violence against journalists will not be tolerated in a democratic society,” the statement noted.
The statement, signed by the President of PRINPAG, Mr. David Tamakloe, further urged the public and security agencies to appreciate the critical role journalists play in Ghana’s democracy. He described media practitioners as partners in nation-building who provide citizens with vital information and hold public and private power to account.
“Journalists deserve protection, not harassment,” the statement emphasised, adding that a safe working environment for the media is indispensable to accountable governance and informed public discourse.
PRINPAG also expressed solidarity with Mr. Addo and with journalists across the country who continue to work under increasingly challenging and, at times, hostile conditions.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights, safety and independence of media professionals.
It pledged to continue advocating for a free, safe and responsible press, stressing that safeguarding journalists is not a favour but a constitutional obligation that must be upheld to preserve Ghana’s democratic credentials.
