Focus on prosecuting corruption, not persecuting journalists - GJA tells Special Prosecutor

The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has criticized the Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP). He claims they are harassing and persecuting journalists.

Mr. Dwumfour believes that Special Prosecutor Kissi Agyebeng is overstepping his authority. He sees this as a troubling deviation from the prosecutor's constitutional role.

“The Special Prosecutor must focus on his core mandate,” he said. “He is a Special Prosecutor, not a special persecutor.” These comments were made during a press briefing on April 23.

His remarks follow the detention of journalist Gordon Asare Bediako by OSP operatives. Mr. Bediako was charged after alleging that the Special Prosecutor requested a private jet from the former Akufo-Addo government.

The OSP charged Mr. Asare with publishing false information and later bailed him for GH₵5 million.

Mr. Dwumfour announced that the GJA has instructed its legal team to seek judicial review. They view the OSP's actions as unlawful and unconstitutional.

"We believe this overreach by the OSP is unacceptable and illegal," he stated. The GJA plans to ask a court to nullify these actions.

Additionally, they will file an injunction to prevent further harassment of Mr. Bediako or any other journalist.

Mr. Dwumfour reaffirmed the GJA’s commitment to press freedom and rule of law. He emphasized that journalists should be protected, not persecuted for their work.

“We remain committed to upholding justice within legal boundaries,” he added.