GJA records more than 50 attacks and threats against journalists since 2022

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) says it has recorded more than 50 incidents involving attacks, assaults, arrests, threats, and harassment of journalists between 2022 and January 2026.

President of the Association, Albert Dwumfour, disclosed this at the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, where he raised concerns about the safety of journalists despite progress in Ghana's press freedom ranking.

He said five attacks were recorded in January 2026 alone, with three allegedly involving state security personnel.

“Journalists are not enemies of the state,” he stated.

Mr Dwumfour said the Association could not overlook the threats confronting journalists while celebrating improvements in Ghana's press freedom ranking.

“While celebrating progress, we cannot ignore the attacks and threats confronting journalists,” he said.

He stressed that journalist safety remained a key concern requiring sustained attention from government, security agencies and other stakeholders.

The GJA President said efforts to consolidate gains in press freedom must also address the challenges facing media practitioners, including economic insecurity, media independence and professional development.

“Our responsibility is to consolidate the gains and address persistent challenges including journalist safety,” he said.

The Association has consistently called for measures to protect journalists and ensure accountability for those responsible for attacks against them.

The latest figures add to concerns about the conditions under which journalists carry out their work, particularly when reporting on matters involving public officials and state institutions.