The Ghana Police Service has pledged its unwavering commitment to safeguarding journalists during the 2024 General Elections. This assurance was reiterated during a stakeholder meeting held at the Police Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, November 20, 2024.
The engagement, led by Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, brought together senior journalists and news editors to discuss security measures for the upcoming elections.
In his address, Dr. Dampare underscored the media’s crucial role as the fourth estate in ensuring a free, fair, and transparent electoral process. “The media is a key stakeholder in this year’s elections, and its safety is paramount to achieving Ghana’s democratic aspirations,” he stated.
Key Initiatives for Media Safety:
- Liaison Officers for Media Houses:
The Police announced the deployment of dedicated liaison officers to media houses nationwide. These officers will serve as direct communication links between journalists and law enforcement, addressing security concerns swiftly. - Toll-Free Contact Line:
A toll-free number, established in collaboration with telecommunications providers, will be made available to the public and the media for reporting incidents or sharing vital information with the Police. - Collaborative Engagement:
Dr. Dampare highlighted Ghana’s reputation as a leader in democratic governance, attributing its success to the strong collaboration between institutions like the Police and the media. He called for collective efforts to ensure the elections are peaceful, secure, and orderly
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The IGP urged journalists to maintain high standards of accuracy in their reporting while avoiding the spread of misinformation that could incite tension. He expressed confidence in the measures put in place to enable media personnel to operate without fear or interference.
Dr. Dampare concluded by encouraging all stakeholders to work towards showcasing Ghana as a beacon of democracy and stability during this pivotal election period.
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