The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has asked all media organisations in the country to blacklist the Member of Parliament for Yendi, Farouk Aliu Mahama, following allegations of assault against Citi TV’s Northern regional reporter, Mohammed Aminu M. Alabira.

The call has received support from the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA).

During a press conference on Tuesday, February 6, the coalition urged media houses to enforce the blacklist until further notice.

Farouk Aliu Mahama,Yendi MP

They cited concerns over the MP’s alleged association with individuals capable of harming journalists and thereby posing a threat to media work.

“That all media houses must BLACKLIST and offer Farouk Aliu Mahama no media coverage, interview, etc. as the MP for Yendi and any other state position he holds until further notice. We want you to know that apart from him being insensitive to the work of journalists (as demonstrated during the Parliamentary Primaries), there are vigilantes around him who may harm you. So, just steer clear of him and his thugs.”

The groups urged journalists to comply with the directive.

The GJA urged the Ghana Police Service to expedite investigations into the case and bring the perpetrators before the courts to face legal consequences.

“My Colleagues, it is our hope that all media houses will rally behind our call and ensure that they adhere to the directives. This is in our shared interest.”

Additionally, the GJA issued a 10-day ultimatum to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) to respond to its concerns, warning that the association would take further action if no response is received within the stipulated time frame.

“We are giving the NPP, Regional and National, and the Ghana Police Service ten (10) days ultimatum each to hear from them. They should arrest the perpetrators. If they fail, we shall advise ourselves.”Source: Myjoyonline.com