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The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has demanded the immediate arrest of Alhaji Osman Masawudu, Third National Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for what it describes as threatening and dangerous conduct toward journalists.
The call follows Alhaji Masawudu’s controversial remarks during an interview on Kumasi-based Ash FM, where he allegedly threatened physical assault against journalists from Media General who attend NPP functions. The comments have sparked public outrage and condemnation from media stakeholders and press freedom advocates.
The GJA said the threats are deeply concerning and particularly disturbing in light of a recent incident where Alhaji Masawudu was captured on video aggressively pushing away a microphone branded with TV3, a Media General affiliate, during a party press briefing. The action was widely condemned as unprofessional and hostile.
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Addressing a press conference in Accra on Wednesday, April 23, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour described Alhaji Masawudu’s actions and words as reckless, repressive, and dangerous to both individuals and democratic institutions.
“The actions and comments of Alhaji Masawudu are very reckless, repressive and regrettable. His actions are not only a threat to human life; they are also a threat to the life of the rule of law and our democracy,” Mr Dwumfour stated. He demanded a full withdrawal of the remarks and a public apology from the NPP official.
The GJA also appealed to civil society organisations, diplomatic missions, and international press freedom advocates to take note and support its call for accountability.
“If the NPP National Vice Chairman fails to withdraw those reckless comments and threats, we shall hold him responsible for any attack on TV3 reporters at the party’s programme or anywhere close to the party’s office,” Mr Dwumfour warned.
According to the GJA, Media General has already reported the incident to the Ghana Police Service. The association is now urging law enforcement to act swiftly to deter future acts of intimidation against journalists.
“We hereby call on the police to act decisively on this case. 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 call for the arrest of the NPP Third National Vice Chairman,” the GJA President said.
The association’s strong stance underscores growing concern over the safety and freedom of journalists in Ghana, especially in the lead-up to national elections.
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