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Accra, August 13, 2025 — The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on Ghanaian authorities to swiftly and transparently investigate the July 30 assault on JoyNews reporter Carlos Lorlornyo Atsu Calony and threats made against camera operator Jonas Zodzi Voergborlo. The incident, which occurred during coverage of a demolition exercise in Accra, has reignited concerns over press freedom and the treatment of journalists by security forces in Ghana.
🚨 Incident Details and Allegations
According to Calony’s account, uniformed soldiers approached the JoyNews team and ordered them to stop filming. Calony was allegedly struck twice from behind, resulting in severe spinal pain and partial vision loss in his left eye. Equipment was damaged, and Voergborlo was threatened with physical harm if he continued recording. Calony was detained at the National Intelligence Bureau headquarters for approximately 45 minutes before being released. He later sought medical treatment.
🗣️ Official Response and Skepticism
President John Dramani Mahama condemned the assault as “unacceptable” and directed security services to investigate and sanction those responsible. He also pledged to convene security chiefs and the Ghana Journalists Association to develop training programs aimed at improving interactions between officers and media personnel.
Following the president’s directive, the Ghana Armed Forces announced an internal investigation and promised disciplinary action where warranted. However, press freedom advocates remain skeptical. The Media Foundation for West Africa criticized the military’s initial response as inadequate and urged concrete actions rather than vague assurances.
CPJ Africa Program Coordinator Muthoki Mumo stated:
“Despite their mandate as protectors, Ghanaian security forces are unfortunately known for abusing journalists on the job”.
📉 A Pattern of Abuse
Rights groups argue that the July 30 incident is part of a broader pattern of journalist mistreatment in Ghana. Since the 2019 murder of investigative journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale Divela, dozens of assaults, threats, and detentions have been reported, many involving security personnel. No one has been tried in connection with Divela’s death, and impunity remains a pressing concern.
Earlier this year, five journalists were attacked while covering elections in the Ashanti Region. The Ghana Police Service issued a statement pledging to identify the perpetrators, but no further action has been reported.
📢 CPJ’s Call for Accountability
In its August 12 appeal, CPJ urged Ghana to conduct a transparent, time-bound inquiry into the July 30 incident, publish its findings, and impose sanctions where appropriate. The organization emphasized that such steps are essential to restoring public trust and upholding the rule of law.
Excerpts from jurist.org article by Mahmoud Chahrour | U. Ottawa Faculty of Law, CA
Skyline View of Accra, Ghana on pexels by Prince Enos-31782030
