The United Voices for Change movement, a pressure group determined to restore political sanity for socio-economic national development in Ghana has described as ‘shameful’ and disgusting the level of intolerance of the Akuffo/Bawumia Addo lead NPP government.
U. V. C. says the unfortunate social canker does not only portray shameful act that is gradually destroying the country’s enviable democratic image and reputation but also a threat to national security.
The pressure group made the remarks in a press statement issued on the 9th of October 2023 to register their displeasure following the unfortunate attacks on UTV journalists by some yet to be identified NPP youth last Saturday.
Convenor- United Voices for Change
“The United Voices for Change (UVC) has learned with utmost disgust, the shameful violent attacks’ that was meted on journalists within UTV studios.
It is very shameful to see the level of intolerance by persons in this government. The decision does not only demonstrate shame but also, shows how Ghana is back to the buggy and horse days and therefore, this very actions we condemn in no uncertain terms,” part of the statement read.
They pointed out that the ability of journalists to report freely on matters of public and national interests is a crucial indicator of functional and stable democracy.
The leadership of the movement said a free media is responsible to inform citizens of their leaders’ successes and failures and convey the people’s needs and desires to government and state institutions.
They further noted that the press provide a platform for open exchange of information and ideas, therefore, anytime media freedom is restricted, vital state functions break down which can lead to poor decision-making by leaders and harmful outcomes for citizens.
The United Voices for Change movement regrets that for the second successive time in one year, Ghana dropped downward in the annual global press freedom rankings by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
They observed that the country fell two places, from 60th in 2022, to 62nd, in the 2023.
They cautioned President Akuffo Addo and his government to call its fanatics and allies to order in order to restore sanity and social order in the country.
“Government should take a careful look at the rate at which media houses and journalist are being attacked and harassed as we live in a democratic ruling country”.
Leadership of the United Voices for Change said the movement will continue to champion the freedom course of all Ghanaians including persons in government since every citizen is at risk.
