GJA slams NPP Vice Chairman over threats, demands police action

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has strongly condemned what it describes as dangerous and undemocratic behavior exhibited by Alhaji Osman Masawudu, the Third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).

The GJA’s reaction follows comments made by the NPP official during a radio interview on Kumasi-based Ashh FM, as well as a controversial moment during a recent party press conference, where he was captured on video forcefully pushing down a TV3 microphone.

In a statement, the GJA described his conduct as “reckless, repressive, and regrettable,” warning that such actions pose a threat not only to media freedom but also to the broader democratic fabric of the country.

“These actions are not only a threat to human life, but also to the rule of law and our democracy,” the GJA stated. “We condemn them in no uncertain terms and call on the NPP’s National Vice Chairman to withdraw his reckless comment and issue an unqualified apology.”

The association also called on the Ghana Police Service to take swift and decisive action, emphasizing that inaction could embolden further attacks on journalists and undermine press freedom.

“The police must not sit unconcerned. They must not wait for the worst to happen before they act. We call on the IGP and his team to immediately invite or arrest the NPP Third National Vice Chairman,” the statement added.

The GJA’s position underscores growing concerns among media stakeholders about the safety of journalists and the need for accountability from political actors.