Government has dismissed claims by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) suggesting that the Mahama administration is responsible for recent attacks on journalists.

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Felix Kwakye Ofosu, spokesperson for President John Dramani Mahama and Minister of State for Government Communications, described the comments made by GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour as misleading and unfair to the government.

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Addressing the press on Wednesday, February 19, Kwakye Ofosu refuted allegations that the government had orchestrated attacks against journalists, emphasizing that such a narrative was regrettable.

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“Statements were made that sought to create the impression that there is some design by President Mahama and his government to attack journalists. It is a most regrettable narrative.

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“We do not think that it is fair to President Mahama, government or even fair to the GJA and the journalists who are reported to have been attacked,” he stated.

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His response follows remarks made by the GJA president at a news conference at the Ghana International Press Centre, where he condemned rising attacks on journalists, particularly incidents in Kumasi and Walewale. Dwumfour lamented that within just 50 days of Mahama’s administration, seven cases of journalist assaults had been recorded.

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However, Kwakye Ofosu stressed that the government values its engagement with journalists and has taken steps to address concerns.

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“I have engaged the President of the GJA in my capacity as Minister for Government Communications, which then means that journalists as you are who we work with are part of the stakeholders.

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“We agreed that early next week, there should be a direct interaction between my office and the GJA,” he revealed.

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Expressing disappointment over how the issue was presented, he urged the GJA to reconsider its approach, stating,

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“I must express dismay about how that narrative was woven. It created a certain misleading perception about Government and President Mahama, which needs to be straight.”

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The government assured that it remains committed to protecting press freedom and addressing any concerns raised by journalists.

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