Former Trade and Industry Minister, Alan Kyerematen, has expressed his disapproval of the attack on Accra-based TV station, United Television (UTV), stating that it was a display of power by the attackers.
The Ghana Police Service has confirmed that they have apprehended 16 individuals in connection with the invasion of UTV studios on Saturday evening.
In response to a complaint by the Despite Media Group and the Ministry of Information, the police were dispatched to the scene and were successful in detaining the suspects.
“They are currently at the Police Station assisting investigations,” Ghana Police Service added in a brief statement.
On Sunday, October 8th, 2023, Mr. Kyerematen tweeted calling for the immediate prosecution of all individuals involved.
“I strongly condemn yesterday’s attack on members of @utvghana’s #UnitedShowbiz program, which is a blatant violation of Freedom of the Media and Free Speech- two fundamental principles enshrined in our Constitution.
“This incident was a wanton display of arrogance of power and indiscipline, issues that have hindered our progress as a nation for far too long. Our Constitution, particularly Article 162, strongly safeguards the independence of the media, and vehemently opposes any interference or harassment based on editorial opinions, views, or content,” Mr. Kyerematen stated.
He continued: “I commend the swift response of our law enforcement agencies in addressing this incident. It is of utmost importance that we protect and uphold the media’s independence and hold those responsible for this attack accountable.
He further called for the immediate and just prosecution of all individuals involved adding that “we must resoundingly convey that such actions have no place in our democratic society.”
“Let us always remember that a free and independent media is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. It is our collective responsibility to uphold and protect these principles, which are essential to our progress as a people. Ghana will rise again.”
