The Management of Accra based television station, United Television has issued a statement on the invasion of its studio on Saturday night October 7 2023 during its late-night live programme dubbed ‘United Showbiz’.

According to the statement dated October 10 2023, the persons involved in the invasion were a group of individuals affiliated to the ruling New Patriotic Party.

The Management of the United Television further condemned the incident and described it as an act of ‘violence and vandalism’ which violate its fundamental human rights and freedoms.

Again, Management of United Television also indicated that the action undermined the independence of the media as enshrined under Chapters 5 and 12 respectively of the 1992 constitution of Ghana.

The statement also revealed that the invasion of the group disrupted its live late-night program which halted the program for an hour but was later continued due to the swift intervention of the Ghana Police Service.

“On the 7^th of October, 2023 , our premises were invade by a group of people who identified themselves as sympathizers or members of the New Patriotic Party. This group further disrupted our live program dubbed United Showbiz, for which reason, the program was halted for almost an hour.
“However, with the timely intervention of the Police, peace and order was able to be restored. We are therefore grateful to the Police administration, particularly the Inspector General of Police for their assistance. We will continue to collaborate with the authorities to bring those responsible for this incidence to justice”
Management, United Television

Management Of UTV Commits To Improve Security In Its Premises

According to the Management of United Television, it is deeply concerned about Saturday night’s incident and will diligently take security measures seriously to prevent the reoccurrence of such unfortunate incident.

“We understand that this event has caused concern amongst stakeholders and we want to assure all that, we are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and security of our workers, guest, properties, clients and the interest of all other stakeholders.
“We also wish to reassure our employees’ that we are here for you and will put in place all the necessary measures to ensure your safety at the workplace. We understand that this event may have caused some distress or anxiety amongst our working team but we want to assure you of Management’s support during this time”.
Management, United Television

Moreover, the statement indicated that the New Patriotic Party has engaged the Management of the station and has expressed its regret of the incident to the station.

“We have also had a visit from the General Secretary and some leaders of NPP, who have apologized on behalf of the intruders and condemned the act. They have assured us of the non-occurrence of such an act again”.
Management, United Television

The Management also extended appreciations to its partners and all stakeholders for their supports and concerns after the incident.

“To our viewers and all stakeholders including the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), National Democratic Congress (NDC), the leader of the Movement for Change, National Media Commission (NMC), Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association (GIBA), Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) and other well-wishers, we appreciate the love and supports shown us”.
Management, United Television

Additionally, Management of the station underscored the commitment of the station to uphold its values and principles as an independent Media House and promised that it will discharge its mandate without fear or favor.

“Our priority is to continue providing quality news while ensuring the safety and security of all stakeholders. We will continue to maintain an impartial and non-biased editorial stance while providing a safe and secure platform for diverse views an opinions to be expressed”.
Management, United Television