The National Media Commission has vehemently condemned the recent invasion of the United Television premises and studios by alleged affiliates of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) on the evening of Saturday October 7, 2023.
In a statement issued on Sunday October 8, the Commission said it was collaborating with the Ghana Police Service to actively address the situation from escalating further into violence.
“The Commission is concerned about the increasing use of violence as the preferred method for addressing grievances against the media and journalists. Perpetrators of such crimes must realise that violence does not produce better journalism,” the statement signed by the NMC Executive Secretary George Sarpong said.
It further emphasized the importance of upholding journalistic integrity and condemned the resort to violence of any kind against the media.
“Our Constitution provides avenues for individuals feeling aggrieved by media coverage to seek redress through the complaint settlement mechanism of the National Media Commission,” the statement pointed out.
The NMC however highlighted the importance of fostering a peaceful environment for journalism, especially with the 2024 general elections taking place soon.
“As we enter the electioneering process, it is crucial for political actors and all Ghanaians to understand that the Ghana we envision will not be built on the foundation of violent attacks on journalists,” the NMC emphasized.