GJA Appeals to IGP

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has appealed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate allegations in The Crusading Guide, a private newspaper, that there was a plan by people close to ex-Flt. Lt. Jerry John Rawlings to psychologically harass and possibly eliminate some key journalists and social commentators, who have been very critical of him and his regimes.

A statement signed by Mrs Gifty Affenyi-Dadzie, President of GJA, expressed concern about the allegation and called on the IGP to as a matter of urgency investigate it.

"We wish to express serious concern about any attempt by any one or group to employ violence to intimidate media personnel and social commentators, in the discharge of their duties."

The GJA said it would be most unfortunate for any group to adopt terror tactics since that could have serious implications for the nation's democracy.

"It will not only be an attempt to muzzle the media and kill free expression, but also discredit the country's democratic dispensation."

The GJA urged all Ghanaians to remain tolerant of each other's views and advised anyone or group seeking to adopt violence against their critics, particularly media personnel, "to give up that uncivilised idea and rather employ constitutional means to seek redress."