The Ghana Police Service has pledged to ensure the safety of media personnel during the 2024 General Elections, highlighting their critical role as stakeholders in the democratic process.
The assurance was made during a stakeholder engagement held at the Police Headquarters in Accra on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. The meeting was led by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, and attended by senior journalists and news editors.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Dampare emphasized the media’s indispensable role in upholding democracy as the fourth estate. He underscored the Police Service’s commitment to safeguarding journalists, enabling them to perform their duties effectively during the election period.
“Ghana’s reputation as a leader in democratic practices is the result of effective collaboration between key institutions like the Police and the media,” Dr. Dampare stated.
To enhance media security, the Police announced the introduction of liaison officers for all media houses across the country. These officers will act as direct points of contact between the Police and media establishments, addressing security concerns and ensuring the safety of journalists nationwide.
The IGP also announced the establishment of a dedicated toll-free hotline, developed in collaboration with telecommunications companies, to enable the public to share information with the Police as needed.
Acknowledging the media’s influential role in shaping public discourse, Dr. Dampare encouraged journalists to uphold high standards of accuracy in their election coverage, cautioning against misinformation and disinformation that could jeopardize national stability.
He expressed confidence that the measures in place would allow media personnel to work without fear, regardless of their location, while covering the elections. Dr. Dampare called on all stakeholders to strengthen their commitment to making the 2024 General Elections a landmark in Ghana’s democratic history, characterized by peace, security, and order.
The IGP concluded by reiterating the importance of showcasing Ghana as a model of democracy and stability during the electoral process.