The relationship between politicians and the media in Ghana’s Western North Region remains a complicated dance of convenience and hostility. When in opposition, politicians often praise journalists, treating them as messengers of truth and allies in holding the government accountable. Media platforms become tools for exposing corruption, highlighting development failures, and rallying public support.
Opposition politicians frequently court the media, granting exclusive interviews, sharing insider information, and relying on journalists to amplify their messages. In the eyes of the public, the media appears as a vital force for transparency and accountability, ensuring that those in power are continuously monitored.
Yet the dynamic changes dramatically when opposition politicians assume office. Suddenly, the media that was once celebrated becomes a target of suspicion and hostility. Stories critical of government actions are labeled attacks, and journalists are often vilified for performing the same duties that were praised when those leaders were in opposition.
In areas such as Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Akontombra, Aowin, and Suaman, this pattern is especially evident. Authorities in these districts are known to oppose and even fight journalists when they are in power. Critical reporting is often met with resistance, delays in information access, and sometimes intimidation, highlighting a troubling trend of double standards in governance.
The irony is stark: the very investigative reporting that helped politicians gain public support while in opposition is now treated as a threat to their authority. This selective acceptance of press scrutiny undermines democratic values and erodes public trust in political leadership.
Journalists themselves bear the brunt of this contradictory behavior. Reporters in the Western North Region find themselves navigating a delicate path — celebrated one day, vilified the next. Despite these challenges, their duty to report truthfully and objectively remains unchanged.
Civil society groups and media associations have consistently called for respect for press freedom, regardless of who is in power. Democracy cannot thrive if journalists are alternately treated as heroes or enemies based on political convenience. Consistent protection of press rights is essential to maintain transparency and accountability.
The public is not blind to this hypocrisy. Citizens who once cheered media exposés may grow cynical when former opposition leaders attack journalists after taking office. This behavior raises serious questions about the political maturity and commitment of leaders to democratic norms.
For a functioning democracy, politicians must recognize that journalists serve the people, not political parties. Reporting facts, challenging policies, and holding leaders accountable should be respected duties, not optional privileges to be granted when convenient.
Ultimately, the Western North story underscores the fragile balance between power and the press. Leaders in Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Akontombra, Aowin, Suaman, and beyond must treat journalists with consistency and respect. Only then can trust be built, accountability maintained, and democracy strengthened in the region.
