From Watchdogs to Job Hunters? Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu Warns of a Dangerous Shift in Ghana’s Media

Former Majority Leader Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has issued a stark warning over what he describes as a troubling transformation within Ghana’s media landscape, arguing that an increasing number of journalists are abandoning their watchdog responsibilities in pursuit of government appointments.

According to him, the trend poses a serious threat to democratic accountability, as the media’s ability to scrutinise those in power is gradually being compromised by personal political ambitions.

Speaking at a public event, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu lamented that journalism is increasingly becoming a stepping stone into government rather than a profession dedicated to serving the public interest. He cautioned that when journalists begin to view political appointments as career goals, their independence and objectivity inevitably come under question.

He stressed that the media occupies a critical position in every democracy, serving as the bridge between citizens and government while exposing wrongdoing, demanding transparency and ensuring public officials remain accountable for their actions.

“The moment journalists become more interested in securing appointments than asking difficult questions, democracy begins to lose one of its strongest safeguards,” he suggested.

The former Suame MP noted that while there is nothing inherently wrong with journalists entering public service, the growing perception that some media practitioners are positioning themselves for political rewards risks eroding public confidence in the profession.

He warned that credibility, once lost, is difficult to regain, adding that citizens depend on independent journalism to separate facts from political narratives.

Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu therefore called on media practitioners to recommit themselves to the core principles of the profession—fairness, independence, integrity and fearless accountability. He urged journalists to resist any temptation that could undermine public trust and instead remain focused on serving the national interest.

His remarks add fresh momentum to the ongoing national conversation about media ethics, political neutrality and the crucial role of journalism in safeguarding Ghana’s democratic institutions.