When the Watchdogs Become the Players: The Media’s Political Shift and Its Threat to Ghana’s Democracy

As media figures transition into political roles, concerns grow about trust, transparency, and the survival of objective journalism in Ghana. Can the GJA step in to restore balance?

In a democracy, the media is meant to serve as a watchdog, not a kingmaker. But recent developments in Ghana’s political space paint a different picture. Following the 2024 elections, several high-profile journalists have transitioned into strategic roles within the new administration, including Power FM’s Prince Minkah, who now serves as Media Relations Officer for GoldBod.

He isn’t alone. A lineup of respected media figures, including Randy Abbey, Abeiku Santana, Raymond Acquah, and others, have been appointed to influential positions under the Mahama-led government. While these appointments may reflect competence and merit, the optics raise difficult questions: Was the media fair in the lead-up to elections? Or were some journalists strategically positioning themselves for political reward?

From Objectivity to Opportunism?

In the months preceding the election, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) openly accused some media outlets of bias. Dennis Miracle Aboagye, then Communications Director of the Bawumia campaign, repeatedly pointed to unbalanced paneling, hostile interviews, and what he called a “media agenda” to discredit the ruling government. The party’s decision to boycott Media General platforms in recent times highlighted a deepening trust deficit.

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Now, with post-election appointments affirming those suspicions, Ghanaians are left to wonder: Is the media still working for the people, or for power?

When Media Loses Its Mandate

Media’s influence is profound—it shapes public opinion, frames national conversations, and can uplift or destroy reputations. But when media personnel actively angle for government appointments, it undermines the very neutrality and credibility the profession demands.

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This trend risks transforming the media from the Fourth Estate of governance into a pawn in political chess, where truth is sacrificed for influence, and journalistic integrity is traded for personal advancement.

The Cost to Democracy

When citizens start doubting media neutrality, democracy suffers. A disillusioned public is less likely to vote, more susceptible to misinformation, and increasingly cynical about civic engagement. Ghana cannot afford to lose its democratic vitality at the hands of partisan journalism.

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Yet the problem isn’t beyond repair. The solution lies in proactive reform, led by none other than the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

GJA’s Roadmap to Restoring Media Integrity

The GJA has a historic opportunity—and responsibility—to safeguard the sanctity of journalism. Here’s a roadmap to help Ghana’s media reset:

1. Enforce a Robust Code of Ethics: Investigate complaints of media bias and impose appropriate sanctions on violators, regardless of rank or influence.

2. Annual Media Credibility Report: Publish a “State of Journalism in Ghana” report to rank outlets on ethical conduct, neutrality, and public trust.

3. Mandate Political Disclosure: Require journalists transitioning to political roles to declare affiliations and institute a cooling-off period.

4. Build Capacity in Ethical Reporting: Conduct nationwide workshops on nonpartisan reporting, especially during election seasons.

5. Empower Citizen Journalism: Support grassroots reporters and independent platforms that diversify the media landscape and promote balance.

6. Engage Political Parties in Dialogue: Foster open forums between media professionals and political stakeholders to discuss grievances, expectations, and journalistic boundaries.

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What’s Next for the Ghanaian Citizen?

Losing trust in the media shouldn’t mean losing hope in democracy. It should inspire demand for reform, transparency, and accountability. Citizens must question what they read, engage with alternative viewpoints, and hold both politicians and journalists accountable for the narratives they promote.

As we reflect on the evolving relationship between media and politics, one truth must remain sacred: Journalism exists to serve the people—not power.

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Let the GJA lead the charge. Let the media rise again—not as mouthpieces for political actors—but as defenders of truth, equity, and democracy.