GPS launch initiative to safeguard journalists ahead of elections

The Ghana Police Service (GPS) has rolled out an initiative designed to ensure the safety of journalists and media houses during the lead-up to the 2024 general elections. 

Spearheaded by Inspector General of Police (IGP) George Akuffo Dampare, the scheme aims to provide enhanced protection for media professionals as they carry out their duties.

As part of the initiative, every media house across the country will be assigned a police liaison officer, while police patrols will monitor these outlets to safeguard journalists. 

A key element of the programme includes a dedicated police visibility team, which recently visited Asaase Broadcasting Company on Monday (25 November), to reinforce the police’s commitment to media safety.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Emmanuel Okyere, who led the visit, explained that the team’s role is to ensure journalists can work without fear of interference or danger, particularly as tensions often rise in the run-up to elections. 

“We have observed during election periods that certain people try to take the law into their hands,” Okyere said. 

“This is the reason the IGP deemed it necessary to ensure that most of the radio stations across the country are patrolled to ensure that the nation experiences a fruitful election.”

The police initiative follows a crucial stakeholder meeting held on 20 November, where the IGP assured senior journalists and news editors of the force’s full support in maintaining media safety during the elections. 

As part of this, liaison officers will act as direct points of contact between the police and media outlets, addressing any security concerns that may arise.

IGP Dampare emphasised the critical role the media plays in the electoral process, stressing that journalists are a vital partner in ensuring transparency and accountability. 

“We will not stop until we realise that the peace the country is enjoying still remains, and no form of violence is identified within the country and so the police is ready to ensure peace and security until the end of the elections,” ASP Okyere affirmed.

Reporting by Nhyira Kwabi Angela in Greater Accra

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