 |
| (Photo credit: myjoyonline) |
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed its concern regarding the recent fines imposed on the New Patriotic Party (NPP) thugs who invaded UTV studios. According to the GJA President, Albert Dwumfuor, the fines are not sufficient to deter others from committing similar crimes. During a press conference held on Wednesday, Dwumfuor stated that the charges of conspiracy to commit a crime and rioting were inadequate, soft-handed, and minimalistic. The GJA believes that additional charges should have been investigated and imposed, including unlawful entry, rioting with weapons, assault, and battery, causing harm, unlawful assembly, offensive conduct conducive to breach of peace, forcible entry, and the threat of harm.
Acknowledging the judge's authority to decide whether to impose a custody sentence or a fine as a form of punishment, the GJA believes that the option of a fine is not deterrent enough. The GJA President emphasizes that the police should have preferred more comprehensive charges, which would have led to stiffer punishments for the culprits. It is worth noting that the GJA appreciates the efforts of the Ghana police in swiftly arresting and prosecuting the suspects, as well as the prompt hearings and sentencing by the courts.
READ ALSO: Convicted NPP Members Fined For Invading UTV Studios
These concerns arise following two separate attacks against the media – the invasion of UTV by NPP thugs and the assault of a CITI FM reporter by thugs of the opposition National Democratic Congress. The thugs who attacked UTV were charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and rioting. They pleaded guilty and were subsequently convicted and fined 200 penalty units each, equivalent to GH¢2,400.
Dwumfuor appeals to the relevant institutions to consider attacks on the media as aggravating offenses, particularly when they are premeditated. He explains that premeditated actions against the media instill fear, leading to self-censorship and a culture of silence, which goes against the principles of media freedom and independence enshrined in the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. In light of this, the GJA urges the judiciary to regard offenses against the media as aggravating, reflecting the severe impact they have on press freedom.
The GJA's call for stricter punishment aims to protect journalists and media organizations, ensuring that they can carry out their duties without fear of intimidation or harm. By advocating for greater accountability for crimes committed against the media, the GJA seeks to safeguard the principles of free and independent journalism in Ghana.
Follow Us On Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/bfmnetwork
Comments
Post a Comment