Press freedom and the vehement abuse of the fundamental human rights of journalist in Ghana by state actors; the way forward

On this International Press Freedom Day, it is important to reflect on the state of press freedom in Ghana and the alarming trend of abuse of fundamental human rights of journalists by state actors.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is an essential ingredient for the development of a democratic society, as it enables citizens to express their views, opinions, and beliefs without fear of censorship, repression, or persecution. In Ghana, ensuring freedom of expression is a crucial factor in shaping a future that upholds human rights in all aspects of life.

Press freedom is a cornerstone of democracy and an essential element of a free and open society. It allows journalists to hold those in power accountable, shine a light on corruption and injustice, and inform the public on matters of national interest. However, in recent years, press freedom in Ghana has come under serious threat, with journalists facing intimidation, harassment, and violence from state actors.

Ghana has made significant strides in promoting freedom of expression and press freedom in recent years. The country's constitution guarantees the right to freedom of expression, including freedom of the press and other media. However, there are still challenges to ensuring that this right is fully realized.

One of the significant challenges to freedom of expression in Ghana is the restrictive media environment. Despite the legal guarantees of freedom of expression, journalists and media outlets face challenges such as harassment, intimidation, and violence, particularly when reporting on sensitive issues like corruption or government wrongdoing. This has led to self-censorship among journalists, which hinders the public's right to information.

Another challenge is the misuse of laws and regulations to restrict freedom of expression. For example, the Electronic Communications Act of 2008 gives the government the power to monitor and intercept electronic communications, which can be used to suppress dissenting voices. The country's defamation laws are also used to silence criticism, even when it is in the public interest.

Journalists in Ghana have faced various forms of harassment, intimidation, and violence in the past, with some being subjected to physical assault or arrest for simply doing their jobs. ?One of the most high-profile cases of abuse of press freedom in Ghana is the murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale. He was shot dead in January 2019 after exposing corruption in Ghanaian football. Despite promises by the government to bring his killers to justice, no arrests have been made, and his case remains unsolved.

The assault of a Citi FM journalist by the Ghana Armed Forces during a military-led operation in March 2021 is another glaring example of the abuse of press freedom in Ghana. Caleb Kudah, a journalist with Citi FM and Citi TV, was arrested and detained by the National Security operatives for filming abandoned cars parked at the premises of the National Security Ministry. The soldiers who conducted the operation later assaulted him while in custody. Mr. Kudah was subjected to various forms of inhumane treatment, including being slapped, kicked, and hit with the butt of a gun. The journalist was also interrogated and coerced to disclose the source of the video he had recorded.

Also, the assault of Joy News reporter Latif Iddrisu in 2019, and the arrest and detention of ModernGhana editor Emmanuel Ajarfor Abugri in 2021.

In another case, investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni was subjected to death threats and harassment after uncovering corruption in a government-sponsored social intervention program. His revelations led to the resignation of a senior government official, but he faced intimidation and threats to his safety in the aftermath of his reporting.

These are just a few examples of the dangers faced by journalists in Ghana, who are often targeted by state actors for their reporting. The abuse of press freedom not only violates the human rights of journalists but also undermines the democratic values of Ghana and erodes public trust in the government and institutions. The assault on these journalists is a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in Ghana and the urgent need to protect press freedom. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the government, media organizations, civil society, and the public, to work together to promote a free and open press in Ghana and ensure that journalists can carry out their work without fear of violence, intimidation, or reprisals.

The way forward for journalists in Ghana involves several key steps. First and foremost, there must be a concerted effort to ensure that journalists are protected from harassment, intimidation, and violence. This involves not only legal protections but also practical measures such as providing journalists with adequate training on safety and security and ensuring that they have access to protective equipment and resources.

Secondly, there must be a push to reform laws and regulations that are used to restrict freedom of expression and press freedom in Ghana. This includes revising laws that criminalize defamation and other forms of speech that should be protected under freedom of expression.

Thirdly, journalists must be supported and empowered to do their jobs effectively. This includes providing them with access to information, resources, and training that can help them to carry out their work in a professional and ethical manner.

Lastly, civil society organizations and human rights defenders must continue to play an active role in advocating for the rights of journalists in Ghana. This includes monitoring the media environment, reporting on violations of journalists' rights, and advocating for reforms that protect freedom of expression and press freedom.

Civil society organizations and human rights defenders have a crucial role to play in advocating for freedom of expression and press freedom in Ghana. These organizations can monitor the media environment, report on violations of freedom of expression, and advocate for reforms to protect this fundamental right.

The government and civil society must work together to address the challenges facing freedom of expression and promote an environment that enables citizens to freely express their views, opinions, and beliefs. This will not only strengthen democracy but also promote transparency and accountability, which are essential for Ghana's development.

Press freedom is an essential component of any democratic society, and the abuse of this fundamental human right by state actors in Ghana must be addressed. The government should also review and amend laws and regulations that are used to restrict freedom of expression.

As we celebrate International Press Freedom Day, let us recommit ourselves to defending the rights of journalists and promoting a free and open press in Ghana and beyond.

BY: HENRY OSABUTEY | M.PHIL. IN HUMAN RIGHTS, PEACE AND CONFLICT STUDIES | GLOBAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR | TEACHER | [email protected] |