The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has been officially notified by management of Media General of the arrest, detention and subsequent grant of bail to Emmannuel Paa Kwesi Simpson of Connect FM in the Western Region over the Mpohor kidnapping incident.
He is facing prosecution for the alleged publication of false news with the intent of causing fear and alarm to the public, contrary to the Public Order Act, and false publication of news through an electronic device contrary to the Electronic Communications Act, 755 of 2008.
News of securing bail for Paa Kwesi Simpson is refreshing as it is welcoming, the state having repealed criminal libel provisions of the Criminal Offenses Act several decades ago.
The GJA sympathizes with Paa Kwesi Simpson over the developments, especially the earlier refusal to grant him bail. We strongly hold the view that,bail though discretionary, must not be used as punishment.
The GJA notes with grave concern what seems to be the occasional revival and resort to the two rather controversial laws, and urge journalists and media practitioners to be minded by them in the lawful execution of their jobs.
It is the hope of the GJA that Section 208 of the 1960 law (Act 29) on the publication of false news to cause fear and alarm or disturb the peace, as well as Section 76 of the 2008 law (Act 775) regarding false or misleading electronic communication will be looked at again to align with the country’s abhorrence of criminal libel.
Signed
Affail Monney
GJA President.
October 9, 2021.
