Audio: GJA Frees Yendi MP From Media Blackout

Farouk Aliu Mahama, the Member of Parliament for Yendi, is no longer subject to the media ban imposed by the Ghana Journalist Association (GJA).

The lawmaker endured a temporary restriction on his media coverage for over three months.

This comes after he assaulted Citi News’ Northern Regional Reporter, Mohammed Aminu Alabira, on January 27, 2024.

Addressing the press in Accra, President of the GJA, Albert Dwumfour revealed that the decision to lift the media blackout on Mr Mahama was influenced by the MP’s demonstration of remorse and his pledge to work with journalists to safeguard their safety and security in the country.

“Honourable Farouk Aliu Mahama apologized for the assault on the Citi FM reporter and committed to working to restore cordial relations with the media in the Northern region and the country as a whole.

“He informed the meeting that he had also withdrawn his suit against GJA and its partners as well as Citi TV and Citi FM and was ready to meet the management of Citi TV and Citi FM and the victim, Mohammed Aminu Alabira for an amicable settlement.”

Mr Dwumfour stated that the Yendi MP sent a formal letter of apology to the management of Citi FM and Citi TV,

He indicated that the MP also wrote to the GJA to resolve the matter between himself, Citi FM, TV, and the GJA.

“After meeting to discuss the reconciliation gesture by the MP, the pleas by the minister of information designate and deputy designate together with the positive feedback from the management of Citi TV, the GJA and its partners have decided to end the media boycott placed on Farouk Aliu Mahama, the MP of Yendi.

“We therefore respectfully, request all media organisations to take note and act according with effect from today, May 9, 2024.”

The issue of the previously lifted media blackout on the MP for Awutu Senya East Constituency, Mavis Hawa Koomson, was also raised.

Mr Dwumfour stated that while the media blackout on Mrs Koomson was lifted several months prior, the GJA and its partners will ensure that justice is served.

“The MP met officials of the GJA and its partners to express regret over the attack of the journalist while pledging to help identify and arrest the perpetrators. It was on the basis of this pledge which was backed by the minister-designate for information that the blackout was lifted.”

According to the President of the GJA, Mrs Koomson honoured her promise to assist the police in their investigations by identifying two suspects.

However, he assured that the case is still under investigation by the police to ensure the prosecution of the identified perpetrators.

Meanwhile, the GJA President stated that the implementation of the media blackout, which involves withdrawing media coverage of individuals who perpetrate violence against journalists, has proven to be an effective deterrent.

According to him, after recording the attacks and blacklisting people who attack journalists, it resulted in a reduction in attacks but has also raised awareness.

“This is really good for us. It means that the measures and decisions we have taken is biting and everyone is really cautious and being careful about the media,” he said.

 

Listen to the audio below

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