Lloyd Evans, a retired journalist from Graphic Communications Group, has supported the Ghana Journalist Association’s (GJA) decision to blacklist two Members of Parliament (MPs) for allegedly attacking journalists.
This move, according to Evans, signifies a crucial step towards safeguarding press freedom and upholding the integrity of journalism within the country.
The incidents leading to the media blacklist included the reported attack on Citi FM’s Northern regional correspondent, Mohammed Aminu Alabira, allegedly by MP for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, during coverage of the National Patriotic Party’s (NPP) parliamentary primaries, and the alleged assault on Cape FM’s David Kobbina by supporters of the MP for Awutu Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
Contrary to this stance, Yaw Boadu-Ayeboafoh, the chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), said the GJA’s approach might not yield the desired outcomes.
However, speaking on the 12 O’Clock Report on Tuesday, (13 February), Evans expressed his disappointment in Boadu-Ayeboafoh’s failure to bridge the gap between the GJA and the NMC, given his background in the industry.
“I think, as a very senior journalist and then a chairman of the Media Commission, he [Boadu-Ayeboafoh] should have been able to bridge the gap. Ever since journalists started having these attacks, I haven’t seen how the Media Commission has gone to condemn some of these things and then taken certain actions,” Evans stated.
He also emphasised the importance of condemning attacks on journalists and taking decisive action to address such incidents.
He underscored that journalists should not be subjected to physical assault or intimidation, emphasising that the GJA’s decision to blacklist the MPs is a commendable step towards protecting journalists’ rights.
“So for the GJA also to take such a step for me, I think it’s a step in the right direction. I don’t think journalists are punching bags that any Tom, Dick, and Harry at all can get up, and then with the least issue and then start punching them, I don’t think that is right.”
Reflecting on Boadu-Ayeboafoh’s reservations, Evans suggested that a constructive dialogue between the NMC and the GJA could be beneficial in addressing concerns and finding common ground. He urged Boadu-Ayeboafoh to initiate a roundtable discussion to thoroughly examine the implications of the GJA’s decision and explore potential alternatives.
“If Mr. Ayeboafoh is not happy with what has happened, the best thing for him to do, as I said earlier, should call the GJA to a round table discussion and then discuss the pros and cons of their action.”
Evans concluded by reaffirming his support for the GJA’s stance, asserting that the protection of journalists is paramount to maintaining a free and vibrant media landscape in Ghana.
Reporting by Leroy Hawkson in Accra
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