The Progressive People’s Party (PPP) has condemned the attack on UTV by thugs affiliated to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and called for a united response to uphold the principles of freedom of speech, rule of law, tolerance, participation, inclusiveness, and equality.
The PPP, in a statement signed by Nana Ofori Owusu, National Chairman, and issued in Accra, yesterday, noted that democracy thrived on dissent and the ability for different voices to be heard.
It added that when a group felt entitled to control the media and determine what information was broadcasted, it undermined the very essence of democracy and leads to chaos.
The PPP also strongly encouraged the media to hold the government accountable.
“The (PPP) strongly encouraged the media to hold the government accountable.
“The media should not feel threatened by state or party actions aimed at silencing them”. It is through a free and independent media that we can ensure transparency, address grievances, and work towards the common good of all citizens,” it said.
The statement said “the PPP firmly believes in media freedom as a way to consolidate our democracy. When given the opportunity, our party will provide the media with the necessary support and resources to effectively carry out their role in fostering development and serving the interests of the people.”
“The attack on UTV studios by NPP members is a disgraceful act that undermines our democracy and threatens our security. We must stand united in condemning such actions and upholding the principles of freedom of speech, rule of law, tolerance, participation, inclusiveness, and equality,” it said.
The PPP reiterated its commitment to media freedom and encouraged the media to continue holding the government accountable adding that “together, we can ensure a peaceful and prosperous future for Ghana.”
In related development, the Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) has also urged the police to expedite action on the 16 persons arrested for invading the studio of Accra-based UTV and arraign them before a court of competent jurisdiction to serve as a deterrent to others.
In a statement issued on Sunday, PRINPAG described the attack as unfortunate.
It encouraged journalists in Ghana not to be deterred by such incidents, but to remain committed to their work as the Fourth Estate of the realm, adhering to the ethics of their profession without fear or favour.
The association stated that it “abhors these attacks on journalists and media houses in the country and we condemn the attack in no uncertain terms and without
any reservation. We are concerned about the continued occurrence of such acts in a country that used to boast proudly of its rankings on global press freedom indexes.”
BY TIMES REPORTER
