In a significant development, the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), in consultation with the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association and other partners, has lifted the media blackout on the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, and the MP for Awutu-Senya East, Mavis Hawa Koomson.
This decision comes after a review meeting held yesterday May 9 where the GJA and its media partners discussed the blacklist status of the MPs.
The media blackout was initially imposed on the Yendi MP back on February 6, 2024, following an incident where a reporter for Accra-based Citi FM, Mohammed Alabira, was attacked during the NPP parliamentary primaries.
The turnaround followed an apology from the Yendi MP, Farouk Aliu Mahama, also the Minister Designate for Information.
Along with the apology, all legal actions previously initiated were withdrawn, which certainly helped in easing tensions.
In a news conference held in Accra, Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, the President of the Ghana Journalists Association mentioned that ““Honourable Farouk Aliu Mahama apologised for the assault on the Citi FM reporter and committed to working to restore cordial relations with the media in the Northern region and the country as a whole.
“He informed the meeting that he had also withdrawn his suit against GJA and its partners as well as Citi TV and Citi FM and was ready to meet the management of Citi TV and Citi FM and the victim, Mohammed Aminu Alabira for an amicable settlement.
The GJA president therefore noted that” After meeting as a coalition to assess the conciliatory gesture of the MP, the plea by the Minister of Information designate and her deputy designate and the positive feedback from the Management of Citi/FM, the GJA and its partners have decided to end the media boycott placed on Honourable Farouk Aliu Mahama, MP for Yendi.”
We, therefore, respectfully request all media organisations to take note and act accordingly, with effect from today, May 9, 2024, Mr. Dumfour noted.
Additionally, the president called on all journalists and media houses to comply with the decision to lift the blackout and to resume normal coverage of the MPs involved effective May 9, 2024.
Meanwhile, the GJA president said on the part of Mavis Hawa Koomson, she complied with assisting with investigations in identifying the suspects with the case involving her still under investigation for the necessary redress.
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Source: Anthony Sasu Ayisadu/ATLFMNEWS
