The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has commended Inspector-General of Police (IGP), COP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, for lifting restrictions on police-media engagements, a policy introduced under his predecessor, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare.
On Thursday, March 20, 2025, COP Yohuno revoked the communication embargo that had previously limited police spokespersons from engaging with the media. Speaking at a workshop for Public Relations Officers (PROs) of the Ghana Police Service, he emphasized the importance of effective communication in building public trust and enhancing crime-fighting efforts.
“Effective Policing Requires Public Trust” – IGP Yohuno
“No society can effectively combat crime without the trust and collaboration of its people,” Yohuno stated. “Effective policing is a partnership—one that requires officers to work closely with the communities they serve to foster a safer and crime-free environment.”
GJA Welcomes the Reform
Reacting to the development on TV3’s Ghana Today programme, GJA General Secretary, Edmund Kofi Yeboah, hailed the decision as a critical step toward improving transparency and public confidence in the police service.
He argued that the previous centralized communication system limited timely access to crucial information, hindering press freedom and public accountability.
“The decision to decentralize police communication is commendable,” Yeboah stated. “It will not only strengthen the relationship between the media and the police but also allow journalists to access critical information directly from regional and divisional police commanders without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.”
Call for Institutional Commitment
Yeboah further stressed that in a democratic society, law enforcement agencies must operate with openness, allowing the media to inform the public accurately and fairly. He noted that the previous restrictions stifled press freedom and made it difficult for journalists to report effectively on security matters.
To ensure long-term impact, he urged the police administration to institutionalize the reform, ensuring that officers at all levels understand the importance of professional and cooperative engagement with the media.
At the same time, he called on journalists to uphold ethical reporting standards, fostering mutual respect between the media and law enforcement.
This renewed collaboration is expected to enhance public confidence in the police service, promoting accountability, transparency, and effective crime-fighting strategies.
By: J.W Quarm.
