The United Nations in Ghana and former President Jerry John Rawlings have expressed revulsion at the blatant murder of undercover journalist Ahmed Hussein-Suale.
Suale, as he was called by close colleagues and family, was gunned down on January 16 close to his residence in Madina, Accra, by two unidentified men.
The international body per a statement issued in Accra, expressed its “strong condemnation” of the killing through its Acting Resident Coordinator, Ms. Sylvia Lopez-Ekra, while Rawlings, tweeting via his official handle, said Suale’s killing cannot be allowed to end up unresolved like others, adding that the questionable circumstances under which he was killed has “implications for our wider safety”.
“The United Nations calls for a prompt, thorough and transparent investigation into Mr. Hussein-Suale’s death and full accountability for those responsible. Failure to bring perpetrators of human rights violations to justice creates a climate of impunity, which perpetuates the cycle of violence against journalists.
“The United Nations in Ghana reiterates the message of the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, on the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists: “When journalists are targeted, societies as a whole pay a price .This should not become the new normal”.
“Protecting the fundamental right to freedom of expression also requires that journalists and media workers be protected, and action be taken to proactively promote their safety”, said the United Nations in the statement, and extended “sincere condolences to Mr. Hussein-Suale’s family, friends and well-wishers”.
Jerry John Rawlings@officeofJJRAhmed Suale’s killing cannot be allowed to end up like others – unresolved…
Rawlings also added his voice to calls for a thorough, swift and conclusive investigation, saying he was also moved by US Congressman, Henry Johnson’s call for support for the investigations into the murder.
“We are here today largely because one man recklessly unmasked an investigative reporter and issued threats of violence.”
