The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, has commended the Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno for initiating steps toward an out-of-court settlement in the long-standing case involving journalist Latif Idrissu and the Ghana Police Service.
Addressing the media, Mr. Dwumfour described the decision as a “hard but necessary step” that could bring closure to a case that has persisted since 2018. He noted that the move signals a commitment by the police leadership to resolve issues of accountability and restore confidence in state institutions.
The case originates from an incident at the headquarters of the Criminal Investigation Department in Accra, where Idrissu, then with Joy News, was reportedly assaulted while covering a protest linked to a police operation. The incident triggered widespread condemnation and became a key symbol of concerns over the safety of journalists in Ghana.
Mr. Dwumfour disclosed that both parties are forming a joint team to negotiate terms of settlement, including compensation, with the aim of reaching a mutually acceptable resolution.
He urged the relevant authorities, particularly the Attorney-General and the police administration, to expedite the process to avoid further delays.
While reiterating the GJA’s position that attacks on journalists must be pursued to their logical conclusion, he acknowledged that alternative dispute resolution can deliver justice, especially when it promotes fairness, healing and institutional reform.
“The process must ensure that our colleague receives the needed redress while reinforcing public trust in the system,” he stated.
The GJA President also clarified that the incident predates the tenure of the current IGP but emphasized that the office remains responsible for addressing the matter. He added that engagements with the police leadership indicate a strong willingness to resolve the issue amicably.
Over the years, the Idrissu case has remained a reference point in discussions on press freedom and accountability.
The GJA expressed optimism that its resolution would set a positive precedent for protecting journalists and strengthening democratic governance in Ghana
