The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has described as unfortunate the conviction and seven-day jail sentence imposed on journalist Larry Alans Dogbey, Managing Editor of The Herald newspaper and theheraldghana.com, saying it is seeking legal guidance before determining its next course of action.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dominic Hlordzi, the Association expressed concern over the decision of an Accra High Court, presided over by Justice Isaac Addo, which found Mr Dogbey guilty of contempt of court over a publication relating to a legal dispute involving businessman Kevin Okyere and Petraco SA.
The GJA said its legal team had been tasked to study the circumstances surrounding the case to enable the Association decide 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 the general public to remain calm and exercise restraint in discussing the matter while the legal processes continue.
It further appealed to all stakeholders to be circumspect in their public comments and allow due process to take its course.
The GJA assured its members and the public that it would communicate its official position on the matter after consultations with its legal team had been concluded.
Meanwhile, the Association pledged its support to Mr Dogbey, stating that it stands in firm solidarity with the journalist during what it described as a difficult period.
Mr Dogbey was sentenced to seven days’ imprisonment for contempt of court by the Accra High Court. The conviction arose from publications by The Herald concerning a legal dispute between businessman Kevin Okyere and Petraco SA.
