Minister of State for Government Communications and spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, for President John Dramani Mahama, has rejected allegations that the government is behind the recent attacks on journalists.

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On February 18, Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) President Kwabena Dwumfour sharply criticized the Mahama administration, citing a surge in assaults on media professionals.

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He noted that seven such incidents had been recorded since Mahama took office, describing the situation as unprecedented. Dwumfour also accused the government of failing to ensure justice for the victims.

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Addressing the press in Accra on February 19, Kwakye Ofosu dismissed the claims as unfounded, arguing that they unfairly tarnish the government’s reputation.

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The Minister stated that he had contacted the GJA President to discuss the matter and gain insight into the reasons behind the press conference.

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“It was claimed that seven journalists had been attacked and statements were made that sought to create the impression that there is some design by Mahama and his government to attack journalists. It is a most regrettable narrative. We do not think that it is fair to President Mahama, it is fair to the government, it is even fair to the GJA or even to the journalists who are reported to have been attacked,” Kwakye Ofosu stated.

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Following their discussion, they scheduled a direct engagement between his office and the GJA early next week to resolve any issues affecting journalists.

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“I sought to find out exactly what informed that press conference and why other alternative approaches were not adopted to discuss the matters with the view to seeking redress for those who might have been affected. After the conversation, we agreed that early next week there should be a direct interaction between my office and the GJA,” he explained.

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Kwakye Ofosu challenged the way the issue was framed, arguing that it unfairly misrepresented both the government and President Mahama.

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He highlighted Mahama’s approachable and amiable personality, emphasizing his long-standing association with the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

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According to him, it was inconceivable that the President would preside over an administration that permits attacks on journalists.

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“All of you are aware that President Mahama is an easy-going, down-to-earth, affable individual who relates well with all manner of people. He is a member of the GJA in good standing. Essentially, he is one of you and therefore he will be the last person to supervise a dispensation where journalists are attacked,” he stressed.

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He further dismissed suggestions that the government was retaliating against certain journalists, describing such claims as completely unfounded.

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“The way that the press conference was addressed and the way that the matters were couched created the impression that some journalists had perhaps said or written something that the government was unhappy about and therefore the government was carrying out reprisals against them.

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“But that is completely incorrect. It is not true and nothing of the sort has happened,” he affirmed.

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