GJA President Condemns Attack on Journalist, Commends Progress in Galamsey Fight

JHNews || Accra, Tuesday, June 10, 2025 —

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Mr. Albert Dwumfour, has strongly condemned the recent violent attack on JoyNews reporter Latif Iddrisu, describing it as a “barbaric and shameful act” that undermines press freedom and democratic governance in the country.

Addressing the media at a press conference held at the Ghana International Press Centre (GIPC), Mr. Dwumfour expressed grave concern about the rising trend of assaults on journalists, emphasizing that the GJA will not relent in its efforts to fight impunity and protect the rights of media practitioners.

“This is the fifth in our series of monthly press engagements, initiated in January 2025, to shine light on critical developments in the media landscape,” he stated. “Today, we bring to public attention some deeply disturbing events that strike at the heart of press freedom and national accountability.”

Brutal Assault on JoyNews’ Latif Iddrisu

Recounting the disturbing incident, Mr. Dwumfour reported that on May 27, 2025, during a demonstration at the premises of the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in Accra by members of the Minority in Parliament and some sympathizers of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), journalist Latif Iddrisu was violently attacked while on live assignment.

Quoting Mr. Iddrisu’s personal account to the GJA, Mr. Dwumfour revealed:

“They hit me with stones, struck my already fragile head, punched me in the ribs, spat on me, and threatened to attack me at my residence.”

The GJA president described the act as “inhumane” and “barbaric,” especially considering Latif’s prior injuries from a similar incident, which continue to impact his physical and mental well-being.

GJA Applauds Swift Police Action

While condemning the attack, Mr. Dwumfour commended the Ghana Police Service and the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Christian Tetteh Yohonu, for their prompt action and the arrest of one suspect connected to the incident. However, he urged the police to leave no stone unturned in ensuring that all perpetrators are identified and prosecuted.

“We also remind the Police Administration of numerous unresolved cases of journalist assaults — most notably, the tragic murder of Ahmed Suale,” he noted. “Justice delayed is justice denied.”

Mr. Dwumfour warned that impunity emboldens further attacks and erodes the media’s role in democratic accountability. He called on all political parties and their supporters to respect the independence and safety of journalists.

“The GJA stands firmly with Latif and will closely monitor the progress of this case. We will not hesitate to act if justice is derailed,” he vowed.

Commendation for Galamsey Crackdown

Turning to the national fight against illegal mining (galamsey), Mr. Dwumfour commended the ongoing efforts by the current administration, led by President John Mahama, particularly the recent reclaiming of eight out of nine heavily mined forest reserves previously dominated by armed galamsey operators.

“These were areas considered ‘no-go zones’ even for journalists,” he said. “We’ve seen progress, and we urge security forces not to relent or allow themselves to be compromised.”

He further reported that about 300 excavators have been seized, while 44 out of the country’s 288 forest reserves have already been overtaken by illegal miners.

“With a collective national effort, the remaining 35 forest reserves still at risk can be saved,” he stressed, calling for regular public updates to ensure transparency in the anti-galamsey campaign.

Applause for Brave Journalists

Mr. Dwumfour also took a moment to applaud the courage of journalists actively covering the illegal mining beat, notably Erastus Asare Donkor (Multimedia) and Kwasi Agyei Anim (Citi FM), as well as the Media Coalition Against Galamsey, spearheaded by Ing. Dr. Ken Ashigbey.

“We are proud of their dedication in the face of danger. We also congratulate Dr. Ashigbey on his new role as CEO of the Chamber of Mines and hope he continues to support the Coalition until this fight is won,” he added.

A Call to Action

In conclusion, the GJA President reiterated the association’s unwavering commitment to defending press freedom and national interest:

“Journalism is not a crime. It is a public service. We urge all stakeholders — political actors, state institutions, and the general public — to support the media in its vital role. Together, we can protect our environment and uphold the rights of all journalists.”