We must respect court orders, but also protect media freedom — Suame MP on Herald Editor bail ruling
Suame Member of Parliament John Darko has called for a balance between respecting court orders and protecting press freedom, following a recent court decision involving the Managing Editor of The Herald, Larry Dogbe.
The remarks came during an appearance on JoyNews’ Newsfile program, where Mr. Darko expressed support for the court’s approach in granting a conditional 10-day bail window to Mr. Dogbe after a successful ex parte application by his legal team stayed the execution of a custodial sentence.
“I think that is a very good position the judge has taken. For me, I would have taken the same position if I were the judge,” Mr. Darko stated, emphasizing that judicial authority must be upheld to preserve the rule of law.
While acknowledging that court decisions must be obeyed, the Suame MP noted that Ghana’s judiciary has generally demonstrated a strong record in safeguarding media freedom, even as he acknowledged room for improvement in the broader justice system.
He stressed that the ruling should be understood in its specific context rather than as a general commentary on media freedom, pointing out that the case concerned the conduct of an individual journalist rather than an attempt to restrict the press as an institution.
“It is not a general statement,” he said, adding that the case must be viewed against the background of prior interactions between the individual involved and the courts.
Mr. Darko further suggested that media practitioners must exercise responsibility, particularly when aware of legal boundaries and judicial expectations, warning that repeated disregard for court directives could undermine the credibility and safety of media professionals.
Expressing concern about the possibility of custodial sentences for journalists, he stated that imprisonment should be a last resort given the media’s vital role in a democratic society.
“I really hope that this gentleman will not end up in jail then we all learn from it,” he said, warning that such outcomes could have wider implications for press freedom and public discourse.
He emphasized that Ghana’s democracy depends heavily on a free and independent media, describing it as a cornerstone of accountability and governance.
“Our media is so critical for our democracy and we ought to do everything to protect it,” he stated, calling for continued efforts to safeguard journalistic freedom while ensuring compliance with the law.
His comments come shortly after he urged calm in the NPP disciplinary committee regarding a referral involving Kennedy Agyapong, a move that underscored his commitment to party unity and due process.
Image Source: MYJOYONLINE
