“Promises alone are not justice” – GJA President demands accountability for attacks on journalists

Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), demanded accountability for attacks on journalists, arguing that mere promises to investigate are insufficient for true justice. Speaking at a press conference in Accra for International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Dwumfour emphasized that failing to prosecute perpetrators endangers press freedom and Ghana's democratic institutions. He began the event with a minute of silence for journalists who had lost their lives.

Globally, the UN reported at least 34 journalists were killed in 2025, with 85% of such crimes remaining unpunished. In Ghana, between 2022 and January 2026, the GJA recorded over 50 assaults, arrests, online harassment, and threats against journalists. High-profile incidents involved state security personnel and law enforcement, including assaults by police and military. Dwumfour stressed that no one should be shielded from accountability due to their uniform or rank.

To address these threats, the GJA announced actions to protect journalists: a dedicated police focal point for journalist safety, the reactivation of a fund providing legal, medical, and psychological support, and urging media outlets to offer safety gear and support to journalists. The GJA also expanded its mandate to include educational sector abuse, condemning recent cases of alleged sexual harassment and violence against students by teachers.

The GJA plans to hold an emergency national meeting on November 6, 2026, and will announce the 30th Media Awards nominees on November 7, 2026. Dwumfour stressed that true press freedom requires accountability, not just empty promises.