The Executive Director of the Alliance for Social Equity and Public Accountability (ASEPA), Mensah Thompson, has launched scathing criticism against Yaw Boadu Ayeboafo, Chairman of the National Media Commission (NMC), for his disapproval of the Ghana Journalists Association's (GJA) directive to blacklist Members of Parliament accused of assaulting journalists.
GJA's directive targeted specific MPs, including Hawa Koomson of Awutu Senya East and Farouk Mahama of Yendi, both facing allegations of assaulting journalists. However, Ayeboafo, in a divergent stance, deemed the directive “dysfunctional and unproductive,” advocating instead for legal avenues to address such acts of impunity.
During an interview on Breakfast Daily with David Kwaku Sakyi on February 12, 2024, Mensah Thompson expressed deep disappointment with Ayeboafo's remarks. Thompson criticized Ayeboafo, labeling him as a failed journalist who has failed to acknowledge assaults against his former colleagues.
Thompson's frustration was evident as he highlighted the plight of journalists facing assaults, disrespect, and inadequate remuneration, questioning Ayeboafo's reluctance to take decisive action to protect fellow journalists. He emphasized the absurdity of allowing perpetrators of violence against journalists to be given a platform, particularly by someone who has experienced the challenges of journalism firsthand.
In a poignant statement, Thompson urged Ayeboafo to reflect on his responsibilities and the ethical obligations of his former profession, expressing dismay at the Chairman's stance and urging him to reconsider his position.
The criticism directed at Ayeboafo underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the protection of journalists and the accountability of individuals in positions of authority to address acts of violence and intimidation within the media industry.