Ghana Journalists Association vows to defend press freedom after editor's jail sentence

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has voiced strong concern over the recent seven-day jail sentence imposed on The Herald Managing Editor, Larry Dogbey, for contempt of court. The GJA has pledged to vigorously defend press freedom and safeguard the rights of journalists in Ghana.

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In keeping with our mandate to safeguard press freedom and protect the rights and welfare of journalists, the GJA is seeking direction from its legal team to determine the appropriate course of action.

In a statement released on Thursday, the GJA acknowledged the Accra High Court's decision, presided over by Justice Isaac Addo, which sentenced Mr. Dogbey. The conviction stemmed from a publication related to a legal dispute involving businessman Kevin Okyere and Petraco SA. The association deemed the development "unfortunate" and confirmed it is closely monitoring the situation.

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We encourage all stakeholders to be circumspect in their commentary and to allow due process to take its course.

"In keeping with our mandate to safeguard press freedom and protect the rights and welfare of journalists, the GJA is seeking direction from its legal team to determine the appropriate course of action," the statement read. The GJA appealed for calm and restraint from media practitioners and the public, urging them to allow due process to unfold. The association promised to communicate its official position and any subsequent actions soon, expressing solidarity with Larry Dogbey during this challenging period.

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In the meantime, the Association stands in firm solidarity with Journalist Larry Dogbey during this difficult period.