Citi FM and Citi TV management have taken action by petitioning the police to arrest and prosecute the NDC supporters responsible for assaulting their journalist, Akosua Otchere. In a press release, the management condemned the attack and stated that the complaint had been lodged at the La Police Station.
On October 13, during the vetting process of parliamentary candidate aspirants for the NDC in the Odododiodio constituency, Akosua Otchere was subjected to a severe assault while performing her professional duties. The management emphasized that until the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted, journalists in the country will not feel safe in executing their roles.
A complaint has been formally lodged at the La Police Station to ensure a lawful investigation. The management demanded swift and thorough action from the police administration in identifying and apprehending those responsible for the assault. They emphasized that journalists will not feel safe until the culprits are brought to justice.
Although the victim has received medical attention and is recovering, the management of Citi FM and Citi TV expressed their commitment to fully cooperating with the police to ensure a speedy investigation and prosecution of the assailants. They made it abundantly clear that justice is their unwavering priority.
The attack took place when some NDC thugs twisted Akosua Otchere’s hand and snatched her phone. This incident occurred alongside the destruction of party property and the pelting of the vetting committee members with stones by members of one of the aspirants’ camps, citing unfairness.
The Odododiodio constituency has a history of political violence and acts of vandalism. This incident has sparked condemnation from various Ghanaian individuals and institutions, including the Ghana Journalist Association and the Ministry of Information. The Ministry stated that journalism is not a crime and journalists should not face harassment or attacks for simply doing their work.
This incident comes just a week after another attempted assault on United Television, where NPP thugs stormed a live TV show due to their dissatisfaction with the content. Although the Ministry of Information condemned the act, the Ghana Journalists Association and some members of the public were not satisfied with certain aspects of the statement.
The assault on Akosua Otchere has once again brought attention to the need for better protection for journalists in Ghana. The media plays a crucial role in society, and it is essential that journalists can carry out their duties without fear of intimidation or violence. The petition to the police by Citi FM and Citi TV management aims to demonstrate that such acts will not be tolerated and that those responsible must face the consequences of their actions.
