The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), following discussions with its media partners, has officially rescinded the media blackout on Mavis Hawa Koomson, the Member of Parliament for Awutu-Senya East and Minister of Fisheries and Aqua Culture Development. The decision was made after a meeting on Thursday, February 15, 2024, where Ms Koomson pledged to collaborate with the GJA to resolve the assault case involving a Cape FM morning show host.
The media blackout was initiated in solidarity with David Kobenna, who was assaulted by individuals identified as the MP's associates during the vetting of New Patriotic Party (NPP) parliamentary aspirants on January 4, 2024, in Cape Coast. Ms Koomson, accompanied by Minister-designate for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, met with GJA's National Executive, along with representatives from media organizations, to address the issue.
During the meeting, Ms Koomson assured, “I will give you the necessary support” to achieve justice for David Kobenna. Minister-designate Abubakar also expressed the MP's willingness to cooperate with the GJA, with the Ministry of Information pledging its support.
GJA President Albert Kwaabena Dwumfour commended Ms Koomson for her positive approach and urged her to uphold her commitment.
However, the media blackout on Farouk Aliu Mahama, MP for Yendi, remains in effect. This decision follows an alleged assault on Mohammed Aminu M. Alabira, the Northern Regional correspondent of Citi FM/TV, during the NPP parliamentary primaries on January 27, 2024.
The GJA and its media partners are urging all media houses to adhere to the continued blackout on Farouk Aliu Mahama as investigations into the assault case proceed.
