Establish media courts to handle cases of attacks on journalists-Justice Abdulai

Legal scholar and private practitioner Justice Abdulai is advocating for the establishment of specialised media courts across Ghana’s regions to tackle the rising tide of abuse and legal infractions against journalists.

His proposal comes in the wake of public outrage over recent incidents of brutality, including the July 30, 2025, assault on a journalist and a civilian during a demolition exercise at the McDan warehouse in Spintex.

Speaking on The Big Issue on Channel One TV, Justice Abdulai described such attacks as a direct threat to press freedom and democratic governance. He criticised the current response system—largely restricted to press releases and internal probes—as inadequate.

To address these shortcomings, he proposed the creation of "media courts" that would be dedicated solely to adjudicating cases involving journalists, whether civil or criminal.

He also recommended the formation of legal advocacy groups comprising journalists and lawyers to support media practitioners who fall victim to abuse.

Justice Abdulai believes that institutionalising justice for journalists through dedicated courts would not only ensure accountability but also reinforce Ghana’s democratic foundations.