The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has expressed concern over the conviction and sentencing of Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper and theheraldghana.com, Larry Alans Dogbey, and says it is consulting its legal team before deciding on its next course of action.
In a statement signed by the Association’s General Secretary, Dominic Hlordzi, the GJA described the development as unfortunate and said it was closely monitoring the circumstances surrounding the case.
Mr Dogbey was sentenced to seven days’ imprisonment for contempt of court by an Accra High Court presided over by Justice Isaac Addo. The conviction stemmed from a publication relating to an ongoing legal dispute involving businessman Kevin Okyere and Petraco SA.
According to the GJA, its legal team has been tasked with reviewing the case to advise the Association on an appropriate response.
“In keeping with our mandate to safeguard press freedom and protect the rights and welfare of journalists, the GJA is seeking direction from its legal team to determine the appropriate course of action,” the statement said.
The Association urged journalists, media organisations and members of the public to remain calm and exercise restraint in discussing the matter while legal processes continue.
It further appealed to all stakeholders to be circumspect in their public commentary and allow due process to take its course, assuring its members and the public that it would communicate its official position once consultations with its legal advisers are complete.
Meanwhile, the GJA pledged its support to Mr Dogbey, stating that it stands in firm solidarity with the journalist during what it described as a difficult period.
The Association also reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting responsible journalism and safeguarding the rights and welfare of media practitioners in Ghana.
The sentencing of Mr Dogbey has generated significant attention within media circles, with journalists, civil society organisations and press freedom advocates closely monitoring developments and awaiting the GJA’s formal response after its legal review.
