The former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyeremaen has said the attack on Accra-based TV station, United Television (UTV) was a clear show of power by the attackers. The Ghana Police Service has disclosed that sixteen persons have been arrested for invading the UTV studios on Saturday evening.
“Following a complaint from the Despite Media Group and Ministry of Information that certain people had invaded the studios of U-TV this evening, the Police proceeded to the scene and arrested sixteen (16) persons in connection with the incident.
“They are currently at the Police Station assisting investigations,” the Ghana Police Service added in a brief statement. However commenting on the development in a tweet on Sunday, October 8, 2023, Mr. Kyerematen called for the immediate prosecution of all individuals involved in the act.
“I strongly condemn yesterday’s attack on members of @utvghana’s #UnitedShowbiz program, which is a blatant violation of Freedom of the Media and Free Speech- two fundamental principles enshrined in our Constitution.
“This incident was a wanton display of arrogance of power and indiscipline, issues that have hindered our progress as a nation for far too long. Our Constitution, particularly Article 162, strongly safeguards the independence of the media, and vehemently opposes any interference or harassment based on editorial opinions, views, or content,” Mr. Kyerematen stated.
He continued: “I commend the swift response of our law enforcement agencies in addressing this incident. It is of utmost importance that we protect and uphold the media’s independence and hold those responsible for this attack accountable.
He further called for the immediate and just prosecution of all individuals involved adding that “we must resoundingly convey that such actions have no place in our democratic society.” “Let us always remember that a free and independent media is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. It is our collective responsibility to uphold and protect these principles, which are essential to our progress as a people. Ghana will rise again.”
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/103.5FM
