Mahama calls for media-security personnel dialogue to minimize assaults on journalists

President John Dramani Mahama has urged dialogue between media practitioners and the security services to address recurring incidents of assaults on journalists while covering assignments.

Speaking at his maiden media encounter since assuming office in January, the President said he was deeply concerned about the growing reports of attacks.

“I’ve condemned assaults on journalists in any form. Journalists are doing their job, and they must be allowed to do it. Unfortunately, some security personnel have a penchant for assaulting people,” he stated.

President Mahama emphasized that, as a lifelong journalist himself, he could not look on unconcerned while members of the press faced violence in the line of duty. He disclosed that discussions with security leaders would soon be held to sensitize officers on the need to respect the rights of journalists.

“Journalists are doing their jobs, and we must ensure that they can do so without fear or intimidation,” the President stressed.

The call comes on the back of several recent incidents. In July, a Joy News reporter was assaulted while covering a protest in Accra, sparking widespread condemnation from the Ghana Journalists Association and media rights groups.

Similarly, during the Ablekuma North by-election in August, a journalist with the EIB Network was physically attacked by security operatives, drawing renewed concern about the safety of reporters covering political events.

President Mahama expressed hope that constructive engagement between the media and the security services would help build mutual understanding and minimize such confrontations.

President John Mahama also said the government is focused on long-term restoration efforts.

“Our tree for life initiative is being actively rolled out across the country, targeting the restoration of lands degraded by legal mining activities.”

He assured citizens that accountability remains central to his leadership.

“My friends understand that public accountability and the recovery of looted state resources are the top of your expectations from my government, and let me assure you, my fellow citizens, that we’ve not wavered in our commitment for even a moment, neither have we been complacent.”