NDC condemns violent attack on UTV studios by alleged NPP members

In a shocking turn of events that sent shockwaves through Ghana’s media landscape, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has vehemently condemned the violent attack on the studios of United Television (UTV), a prominent broadcasting station located in Accra.

According to the NDC, This heinous act unfolded during the live broadcast of the station’s popular entertainment show, ‘United Showbiz.’

According to the NDC, a group of individuals, purportedly affiliated with the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), stormed the UTV studios, causing chaos and disrupting the ongoing program.

He said the attackers even went so far as to threaten the host and her guests, leaving the nation appalled by the audacity of this assault on free expression.

In a statement signed by the National Communication Officer of the NDC, Sammy Gymafi said reports indicate that the individuals responsible for this reprehensible act were led by the Klottey Korle Youth Organizer of the New Patriotic Party, acting under the orders of Ernest Owusu Bempah, a Deputy Director of Communications, and several other influential members of the ruling party.

Mr. Gyamfi stated that the NDC, as well as the wider Ghanaian society, was left aghast by the brazenness of this assault, and there is unanimous condemnation of such uncivilized and beastly conduct within the framework of a democratic nation.

He stated that the unfortunate incident that unfolded at UTV represents a significant setback for Ghana’s democracy and further threatens the dwindling press freedom within the country.

He added that the NDC is deeply concerned about the increasing level of intolerance toward dissenting opinions under the leadership of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia/NPP government adding that it is alarming how determined the ruling NPP appears to be in attempting to enforce a culture of silence upon the nation.

According to the NDC National Officer, this senseless attack on UTV did not occur in isolation but rather seems to be part of a pattern of antagonistic actions taken by high-ranking officials within the government and the NPP toward the network and its flagship program, ‘United Showbiz.’

Mr. Gyamfi further stated the attack followed closely on the heels of a letter issued by the New Patriotic Party’s National Secretariat, which sought to impose an editorial policy on the station, blatantly undermining its independence adding that subsequently, there were threats from prominent NPP figures to forcibly shut down the station.

He said disturbingly, some of the assailants captured on video stated that their actions were driven by a misguided sense of defending and protecting the President, the Vice President, Alhaji Mahamudu Bawumia, and the NPP from what they perceived as legitimate criticism by panelists on the show.

Mr. Gyamfi further stated that the incident at UTV joins a growing list of attacks carried out by individuals associated with the NPP against individuals simply performing their lawful duties.

He stressed that notably, there was an attack on a pregnant judge while she was presiding over a court session in Kumasi some time ago adding that these incidents provide a clear and troubling illustration of the intolerance, violence, and authoritarianism that have become increasingly prevalent under the leadership of the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia NPP government.

According to him, in response to this alarming trend, the NDC calls upon the Ghana Journalists Association, civil society organizations, as well as traditional and moral authorities to speak out and take action before it is too late.

The NDC Communication Officer further added that Ghana’s cherished press freedom and democratic principles are under serious threat, and silence in the face of such challenges would be tantamount to endorsing the triumph of evil.

Mr. Gyamfi said furthermore, we implore the Ghana Police Service to conduct a thorough and expeditious investigation into this incident, ensuring that all those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law.

He added that he NDC will closely monitor the developments surrounding this critical matter and will not accept anything less than the delivery of justice.

According to him, Ghana’s democracy is built on the principles of free speech, tolerance, and respect for differing opinions.

Mr. Gyamfi added that the NDC remains steadfast in its commitment to defending these principles and ensuring that the nation remains a beacon of democracy and freedom on the African continent.

“We believe that the strength of Ghana’s democracy lies in its ability to protect and uphold the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their political affiliation or views.

“The NDC calls upon all Ghanaians who value democracy and the freedom of the press to join us in condemning this deplorable attack on UTV and to stand together in defense of our democratic values. It is only through unity and unwavering commitment to these principles that we can overcome the forces of intolerance and violence that seek to undermine our nation’s progress. Together, we shall prevail and safeguard the future of our beloved Ghana.”

Source: Today.com.gh