IGP assures journalists of safety ahead of Akwatia by-election

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has given firm assurance to journalists that the Ghana Police Service will guarantee their safety and protection as the nation heads into the Akwatia by-election.

Speaking at a stakeholder meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) in Accra on Wednesday, August 20, the IGP stressed that the Police Administration is committed to creating a secure environment for media practitioners who play a critical role in shaping democratic processes.

Concerns After Recent Assault Incident

The assurance follows widespread concerns after a journalist was assaulted by a police officer during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun in July 2025.

That incident sparked outrage among journalists, media watchdogs, and civil society groups, who criticized the police for what they described as a growing trend of hostility towards the media.

The Ablekuma incident reopened long-standing debates about press freedom, journalists’ safety, and the need for improved police-media relations during elections.

It also prompted calls on the Ghana Police Service to demonstrate a renewed commitment to respecting journalists’ rights in the course of their work.

IGP’s Message to Police Personnel

Addressing these concerns, Yohuno directed police personnel across the country to exercise restraint and show respect in their interactions with members of the media, particularly during election coverage.

“All we are telling police personnel countrywide is that the brothers and sisters who hold the camera and the phones to take whatever they want during election time—I think there is a level to which they can go, but you have to be moderate in handling them,” he cautioned.

He reminded officers that journalists serve as the eyes and ears of the nation, providing vital information to the public and ensuring accountability during elections.

“Without them, the rest of the people who are at home watching cannot see what is going on. Some of us have reached this stage, and without the media, nobody would have heard of our name,” the IGP admitted, acknowledging the indispensable role of journalists in Ghana’s democratic journey.

Building Trust with the Media

The IGP reaffirmed his personal commitment to protecting journalists throughout the Akwatia by-election and beyond.

“We will make sure that we will protect you,” Yohuno assured.

The meeting formed part of a series of engagements between the Police Administration and stakeholders ahead of the by-election.

The discussions also highlighted the need to rebuild trust between the media and the police, especially after recent clashes that have strained relations.

Significance of the Akwatia By-Election

The upcoming Akwatia by-election has already generated nationwide attention, with both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) preparing vigorously for what is expected to be a fiercely contested poll.