Police Probe Assault on GHOne Journalist at Rerun
The Ghana Police Service interdicted an officer on July 11, 2025, for assaulting GHOne TV journalist Banahene Agyekum during the Ablekuma North parliamentary rerun, as reported by Graphic Online. A viral video showed the officer slapping Agyekum at the Church of Pentecost, North Odorkor Polling Station 2, after he refused to leave the premises while covering the election.
The officer, identified as an inspector, was withdrawn from election duties and referred to the Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) for investigation, per a statement signed by Assistant Superintendent Richmond Mensah. The incident occurred amid tensions over the rerun, ordered by the Electoral Commission for 19 polling stations due to irregularities in the December 2024 election.
Agyekum, in branded press attire, explained he was working like other journalists present but was singled out. He reported a scar from the slap, possibly worsened by his glasses, and plans to escalate the case to the Greater Accra Regional Police Commander. Eyewitnesses, including Accra Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey, condemned the officer’s actions, calling for his removal to ensure peace.
The rerun saw additional incidents, with police arresting individuals posing as security officers near Awoshie DVLA polling station and violence disrupting St. Peter’s polling station, where former MP Mavis Hawa Koomson was attacked. The Ghana Journalists Association and media rights advocates condemned the assault, urging stronger protections for journalists covering elections.
The Police Service pledged a thorough investigation, promising updates to the public. The incident has reignited concerns about police conduct and press freedom during Ghana’s elections, with calls for accountability to safeguard journalists and maintain electoral integrity.