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Lack of defamation law leaves journalists vulnerable to intimidation lawsuits – Zakaria Tanko
June 28, 2026
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Lack of defamation law leaves journalists vulnerable to intimidation lawsuits – Zakaria Tanko

Money
Policy

Key Points

  • Ghana lacks a dedicated defamation law, relying solely on common law definitions, which creates legal uncertainty.
  • This absence exposes journalists to Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs), often filed to intimidate and silence them rather than seek justice.
  • Powerful individuals exploit the financial imbalance, using costly legal battles to suppress critical reporting by journalists.
  • The General Secretary of the GJA advocates for exercising the right of rejoinder as a constructive alternative to immediate litigation.
  • Adherence to the GJA Code of Ethics is highlighted as a crucial measure to reduce journalists' exposure to legal challenges, as its provisions largely overlap with existing laws.

Why This Matters

This issue directly impacts press freedom in Ghana, potentially leading to self-censorship among journalists who fear costly lawsuits. A compromised media landscape can hinder accountability, transparency, and the public's right to information, ultimately undermining democratic governance and the rule of law.

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