|
Immediate Release CCG-Condemns attack on Journalist Erastus Asare Donkor
CCG
October 30 , 2024
The Christian Council of Ghana unequivocally condemns the violent assault on journalist Erastus Asare Donkor and his colleagues while they were performing their duties in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region. This brazen attack, which occurred in Asumenya during their coverage of illegal mining’s devastating impact on the environment, represents a serious affront to press freedom, public safety, and the democratic principles that we uphold as a nation.
Journalists play a vital role in uncovering the truth and holding individuals and institutions accountable. The Council is therefore deeply disturbed by reports that armed thugs, allegedly acting under the orders of Edelmetallum Mining Resources Limited, carried out this heinous act to silence the voices exposing environmental damage. Such an attack not only endangers the lives of journalists but also threatens the public's right to information and the nation's fight against illegal mining.
We commend the swift action taken by the Ghana Police Service in arresting some suspects linked to the incident and urge a full and comprehensive investigation to ensure that all perpetrators and those behind the attack are brought to justice without delay. Justice must be served to affirm the protection of journalists and reinforce Ghana’s commitment to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
The Christian Council also calls on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Minerals Commission (MC) to urgently assess the operations of Edelmetallum Mining Resources Limited. Given the serious allegations of environmental harm, an immediate suspension of the company's activities should be considered as a precautionary measure until the investigation is completed.
As we continue to advocate for peace, justice, and responsible governance, the Christian Council of Ghana stands firmly with the media and all those who strive to bring light to issues affecting our society. We urge all stakeholders to join in the effort to protect journalists, defend press freedom, and uphold the values that promote a just and democratic society.
We also offer our prayers for the speedy recovery of Erastus Asare Donkor and his colleagues and assure the Ghanaian media fraternity of our unwavering support during this challenging time.
Rev. Dr. Cyril Fayose
General Secretary
Source:
CCG
Published: Wednesday, October 30, 2024 |
Chairman
Rt. Rev. Dr. Hilliard K. Dela Dogbe is the Presiding Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church (A.M.E Zion Church), Full Story
Our Currrent Programs
Socio-economic Justice issues are one of the priority areas of the Council. The Council works at promoting livelihoods Full Story
General Secretary
Rev. Dr. Cyril G. K. Fayose, a senior clergy person of the Evangelical Presbyterian (E.P) Church Ghana, has been appointed by the Christian Council of Ghana as the ne Full Story
Governance
This programme builds the capacity of Member Churches and the Local Councils of Churches in good governance and social accountability so that the target beneficiaries could participate meaningfully in decision-making process that affects their lives, and engage constructively with policy makers and duty bearers to be accountable for their stewardship. Read All Latest News
Human Rights and Gender
The Council believes that the right of citizens, especially women, children and the disabled should be protected by all. In view of that, it works to ensure that there is respect for fundamental human right which includes the right to live, the right to education, the right to free speech and the right to movement with the view of ensuring peace. Council’s work in the area of HIV/AIDS, advocacy for Food Security and Worse forms of Child trafficking reflect the right based approach to its activities.
Interfaith and Ecumenism
The Council connects with other Christian bodies such as the Ghana Pentecostal Council (GPC), National Association of Charismatic and Christian Churches (NACCC) and the Council of Independent Churches (CIC) to foster peace and advance social issues and Christianity. It also works closely with other religious organizations such as the Office of the Chief Imam, Ahmadiyya Muslim Mission, Federation Read All Latest News
