In a development that has reignited the debate over press freedom and the protection of journalistic sources, Prosper Agbenyagah, the Editor of The Current Issue newspaper, has been invited by the National Security to explain how his outlet obtained and published a classified document involving the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).
The invitation, extended by Richard Jakpa, Director of Operations at the National Security Secretariat, has raised eyebrows within media and civil society circles.
According to credible sources, Agbenyagah was summoned to clarify the circumstances under which he came into possession of a sensitive internal document detailing issues surrounding a procurement process for ECG containers.
The contents of the leaked report, as published by The Current Issue, reportedly exposed alleged procurement irregularities and raised questions about transparency in the state-owned power distributor’s operations.
This move by National Security has sparked concerns over the creeping intimidation of journalists in the line of duty, especially in matters of public interest.
Media watchdogs and advocates for freedom of expression are closely monitoring the situation, noting that such invitations—especially when linked to journalistic investigations—could create a chilling effect on press freedom.
Richard Jakpa’s involvement as the official who extended the invitation is particularly notable.
Richard Jakpa, a key figure in national intelligence operations, has become the face of government pressure in cases involving leaked government documents.
His latest action underscores growing tension between national security imperatives and the public’s right to know.
This is not the first time journalists in Ghana have faced scrutiny over leaked documents.
Media practitioners have found themselves at the center of controversy for publishing sensitive materials, often revealing corruption, administrative incompetence, or procedural breaches within public institutions.
-BY Daniel Bampoe
