GJA Demands Sanctions Against Captain Smart for Comments Targeting NPP Supporters

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has issued a strong condemnation of recent comments made by Blessed Godsbrain Smart, better known as Captain Smart, on his Onua TV show.

Captain Smart’s remarks, which suggested that only individuals “not mentally sound” would vote for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the upcoming December 7th elections, have sparked widespread controversy.

The GJA, in collaboration with other media bodies including the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG), and the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), has called for immediate action from Media General, Captain Smart’s employer.

They demand that appropriate sanctions be imposed on him, citing that his comments contravene the ethical standards expected of journalism professionals.

At a press conference, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour expressed concern over the gravity of Captain Smart’s statements and the ethical implications of his behavior.

Dwumfour emphasized that such conduct undermines the integrity of the journalism profession and poses a threat to Ghana’s democratic peace and stability.

“The comments made by Captain Smart are not only a breach of journalistic ethics but also a potential catalyst for political discord and instability,” Dwumfour said. “Imposing sanctions will serve as a deterrent to others and reaffirm the commitment of media organizations to uphold professional standards.”

The coalition of media associations has urged journalists, media practitioners, and media organizations to exercise caution in their reporting and public statements to prevent contributing to unnecessary chaos.

They stressed that the defense of media freedoms hinges on the responsible and professional execution of journalistic duties.