Accra – Ghana, 19/10/24 – The United Press for Development Network (UPDN) has vehemently condemned what it
describes ‘as the unwarranted verbal assault’ by Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, now functioning as the Minority
Leader of Parliament, against Joy FM*. UPDN has stated that his comments accusing the station of mischief and
misinformation ‘reflect an alarming trend of growing arrogance and intolerance toward the media’ by the governing
New Patriotic Party (NPP).
“This attack, provoked by Joy FM's factual reporting on the Speaker of Parliament’s declaration of four vacant seats,
is an unacceptable attempt to intimidate and silence independent journalism. The media’s role is to hold power to
account, and it must be allowed to do so without harassment. Afenyo-Markin’s hostility toward a press organization
performing its civic duty exemplifies a dangerous disregard for the principles of democracy,* the release stated.
The statement was signed by Kelvin Malor, National Organizer, David Albert Quainoo, South Korea Coordinator,
Betty Boafo, Secretary, Eric Nana Prekoh, Media Relations Coordinator, William Hayford Mintah, Central Region
Coordinator, Frank Darlington Heymann, International Relations Coordinator and Kofi Asante Mensah as President.
UPDN urged all leaders to engage constructively with the media and refrain from undermining press freedom with
such ‘reckless public outbursts’.
“The media is not an enemy but a partner in building a transparent and accountable society. We stand in solidarity
with Joy FM and the entire Multimedia Group, just as we do with all media houses facing similar hostility,” the
statement said.
They said that the increasing trend of assaults on press freedom must end immediately.
“We demand that Hon. Afenyo-Markin and the NPP reconsider their approach toward the media, showing respect
for journalistic work and acknowledging the media’s critical role in nation-building,” the statement concluded.
*About UPDN:*
United Press for Development Network (UPDN) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting press freedom,
media development, and sustainable development across Africa. Through capacity building, advocacy, and
networking, UPDN empowers journalists and media organizations to uphold professional standards, foster
accountability, and advance the public interest.
