The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has demanded the immediate removal of the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) following the assault of a Class FM reporter during a fire outbreak at the Kasoa Market. Addressing the media on Tuesday, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour stated that the incident, which occurred on January 4, revealed the PRO, DO II Desmond Ackah, as unsuitable to lead communications for the Service.
“We are calling for the immediate dismissal of the GNFS PRO because our engagement with him on this matter clearly shows he is unfit to handle communication for the Fire Service,” Dwumfour emphasised. The association also demanded an unqualified public apology from the GNFS to Samuel Addo, the Class Media Group, and the wider media community for the professional obstruction, trauma, and humiliation caused by the attack.
Dwumfour praised the government, through the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, for publicly condemning the assault, and confirmed that the GJA would work with Class Media Group and the Ministry to ensure accountability. “Any attempt to shield the perpetrators or trivialise this incident will be fiercely resisted,” he said, stressing that the protection of journalists and press freedom is non-negotiable.
The GJA’s call follows rising concerns over the safety of journalists covering emergencies and public events in Ghana.
Source: Jonathan Ofori
