GJA Condemns Assault on Journalist, Opens Entries for 30th Media Awards and Launches New Website
The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has strongly condemned the alleged assault on journalist Obrempongba Benjamin Kwame Owusu by military personnel during the New Patriotic Party (NPP) constituency elections in Nkwanta South in the Oti Region.
Speaking at a news conference on Thursday, September 3, 2026, GJA President Albert Dwumfour said the incident occurred on Saturday, July 11, 2026, while the journalist was performing his professional duties for Adom News,GJA Condemns Assault on Journalist in Nkwanta South, Opens Entries for 30th Media Awards
Accra, Ghana – The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has strongly condemned the alleged assault and harassment of journalist Obrempongba Benjamin Kwame Owusu by military personnel during the New Patriotic Party constituency elections in Nkwanta South in the Oti Region.
In a statement presented by GJA President Albert Dwumfour at a news conference on Thursday, September 3, 2026, the Association described the incident as deeply disturbing.
The incident occurred on July 11, 2026. According to the GJA, Mr Owusu, a journalist with Adom News, Adom TV/FM and the Multimedia Group, was at the location in the lawful discharge of his professional duties when he was allegedly confronted, heckled and physically assaulted by some military personnel who accused him of taking photographs and filming the proceedings.
His branded Adom T-shirt was torn during the attack, and he had to be rescued through the intervention of Police, BNI and other officials present. He sustained injuries and was later hospitalised at St. Joseph Hospital.
The GJA noted that the elections were largely peaceful at the polling centre, but tensions arose after curfew hours began as delegates, journalists and others sought to return home. Similar harassment of some delegates and onlookers was also reported.
The Association stressed that journalists are not criminals for taking photographs, recording events or reporting on matters of public interest. It emphasised that the work of journalists is protected by the Constitution of Ghana and that they must be allowed to perform their duties without intimidation, harassment or assault.
While recognising the legitimate role of security agencies in maintaining peace and enforcing the law, the GJA insisted that such responsibility cannot justify the abuse of citizens or journalists. It called on the Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service to urgently investigate the incident, identify all personnel involved and take appropriate action against anyone found to have violated the rights of the journalist or other citizens.
The Association also urged the relevant authorities to provide a clear public account of what happened and ensure that those responsible are brought to book.
Opening of Entries for 30th GJA Media Awards
The GJA further announced the opening of entries for the 30th GJA Media Awards, Ghana’s premier platform for recognising excellence and outstanding contributions to journalism.
Entries opened on Thursday, September 3, 2026, and will close on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. There will be no extension of the deadline.
Participation is open strictly to members of the Ghana Journalists Association who are in good standing. Eligible applicants may submit only works published or broadcast between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
As part of a review of the awards, the Association has introduced two new categories: the Bank of Ghana Governor’s Economic and Financial Story of the Year (GEFSY) and the Best Digital and New Media Platform. The Female Journalist of the Year category has been removed following recommendations from members.
The awards ceremony will be held in Accra in October 2026 to mark the historic 30th edition.
New Official Website Unveiled
The GJA also unveiled its new official website, gjaghana.com, as its digital home. The platform is intended to strengthen communication, improve access to information and deepen engagement with journalists, members and the general public.
It will serve as a central source for official updates on GJA activities, statements, programmes, training opportunities, journalist safety advocacy and other relevant resources.
The Association encouraged all journalists and members to visit the website and make it a regular source of official information.
