Richard Kofi Asiedu
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has given the Central Regional National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman, Richard Asiedu, seven days to apologise publicly, pay compensation to Obaatanpa Radio, and report himself to police over the violent shutdown of the Kasoa-based station.
Addressing the media in Accra yesterday, GJA President, Albert Dwumfour, described the June 25 incident as “an outrageous assault on press freedom and constitutional democracy.
“According to the GJA, Mr. Asiedu stormed the premises of Obaatanpa Radio around 10 a.m. with Awutu Senya East MCE Seth Banini, Constituency NADMO Coordinator, Nyash Nyande, and other supporters. The raid followed discussions on the station’s morning show about internal NDC matters in the region.
The Association said staff and journalists were confronted at the entrance. Morning Show producer, Bernard Mireku was allegedly assaulted before the group forced workers out, seized the keys, and kept the station closed for several hours.
“Being a party in power does not confer the licence to close a radio station. No political office authorises the silencing of microphones or the pen,” Mr. Dwumfour stated. He added that people aggrieved by media content should use the courts, not intimidation.
The GJA acknowledged the Central East Regional Police Command, led by DCOP Francis Nchor, for helping reopen the station. It is however calling on the Police to fast-track investigations after the case was transferred to CID Headquarters in Accra.
The Association also wants the Attorney-General to ensure prosecution without political interference.
Other demands include a public condemnation from the National Media Commission, and for NDC national leadership to sanction Mr. Asiedu. The GJA says it is also working with Obaatanpa Radio’s lawyers to pursue legal action.
Under the ultimatum, Mr. Asiedu must admit wrongdoing, issue an unqualified apology to the station and media fraternity, compensate Obaatanpa for lost revenue, and present himself and his associates to police.
The GJA warned that failure to comply within seven days will see him declared an “enemy of press freedom” with both civil and criminal action to follow.
“The attack on one media house is an attack on every Ghanaian’s right to information,” Mr. Dwumfour said. “We will continue to defend journalists against intimidation and violence.”
A Daily Guide Report