The Ghana Police Service has reaffirmed its dedication to ensuring the safety of media personnel during the 2024 General Elections. This commitment was emphasized during a stakeholder engagement held on Wednesday, 20th November 2024, at the Police Headquarters in Accra.
The meeting brought together the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, senior journalists, and news editors to discuss measures aimed at safeguarding media practitioners during the elections.
During his address, IGP Dr. George Akuffo Dampare underscored the pivotal role of the media as a cornerstone of democracy. He highlighted the media’s critical responsibilities as the fourth estate and emphasized the importance of protecting their ability to operate without fear or interference. According to the IGP, Ghana’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa owes much to the effective collaboration between institutions like the Police and the media.
To strengthen this collaboration, the Police have introduced liaison officers for all media houses across the country. These officers will serve as direct points of contact between the Police and media organizations, ensuring swift resolution of security concerns and enhancing the safety of journalists as they cover the elections. This initiative is part of broader measures designed to create a secure environment for media professionals nationwide.
In addition to the liaison officer system, the Police have collaborated with telecommunications companies to establish a dedicated toll-free contact for public use. This hotline will allow citizens to share information with the Police, further enhancing security during the electoral process. The IGP emphasized that this measure aims to foster transparency, build public trust, and ensure swift response to any incidents that may arise.
Dr. Dampare called on all stakeholders to work collectively to ensure that the upcoming elections become a milestone in Ghana’s democratic history. He stressed the need for peace, security, and order, urging journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their reporting. He encouraged them to prioritize accuracy, avoid misinformation, and resist the spread of disinformation that could destabilize the nation.
Acknowledging the media’s influence in shaping public discourse, the IGP reiterated the Police Service’s commitment to enabling journalists to carry out their duties without fear or hindrance. He expressed confidence in the measures being implemented, noting that they are designed to ensure media personnel’s safety regardless of their location during the elections.
The IGP concluded by emphasizing the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in upholding Ghana’s status as a model of democracy and stability. He called on the media to play their role diligently while assuring them of the Police Service’s unwavering support and protection throughout the electoral period.
