Public Relations Officers (PROs) in Ghana’s state institutions are meant to be the bridge between government and citizens—a vital link for transparency, accountability, and public information. But recent reports suggest a disturbing trend: some PROs are prioritizing personal agendas over public progress, undermining both government initiatives and citizen trust.
Journalists allege that certain PROs actively sabotage coverage of government projects that might expose inefficiencies or failings. Press briefings are delayed, statements are carefully filtered, and critical stories are buried. This isn’t mere oversight—it is a deliberate obstruction of information that citizens have a right to know.
Calls and emails from media personnel frequently go unanswered. Reporters trying to clarify facts or hold institutions accountable are often stonewalled, creating a chilling effect on press freedom. When PROs ignore inquiries, they silence scrutiny and weaken the democratic process.
Even more alarming are reports of budget manipulation and outright diversion of media and publicity funds. Some PROs allegedly cut media budgets, delay journalist payments, and redirect funds into personal accounts to control narratives. In many cases, they are literally pocketing money meant for journalists for their own personal gain. These tactics reward compliant media while sidelining critical voices—turning public relations into a vehicle for private enrichment.
Alarmingly, some of these PROs are growing increasingly stubborn and resistant to accountability. Despite repeated calls from journalists, civil society, and oversight bodies, they continue to stonewall inquiries, dismiss criticism, and cling to power, showing little regard for transparency or ethical conduct.
Civil society organizations and journalists are raising red flags. Many argue that PROs are shifting from public servants into gatekeepers of selective information, shielding themselves and political allies from scrutiny. The result: citizens are left misinformed, confused, and increasingly distrustful of official communication.
Social media has become the megaphone for public frustration. Ghanaians share viral posts documenting instances where they were denied information, misled by official statements, or exposed to selective messaging. The emerging pattern shows PROs prioritizing image management and personal gain over public service, eroding trust in institutions that should serve the people.
Yet not all PROs are culpable. Many dedicate themselves to accurate reporting, timely communication, and public engagement. Their work proves that the office can empower citizens—if ethical standards, accountability, and integrity guide their actions.
Experts insist that reforms are urgent. PROs must be trained to respect journalistic freedom, respond promptly to inquiries, and manage resources equitably. Oversight mechanisms are critical to ensure that no officer can divert public funds, manipulate narratives, or serve personal interests at the expense of the citizenry.
The stakes could not be higher. Mismanaged communication, deliberate obfuscation, selective messaging, and the diversion of public funds erode citizen confidence, reduce cooperation with policy, and ultimately weaken governance. Ghana cannot afford a system where PROs enrich themselves while citizens bear the cost.
The role of Ghana’s PROs stands at a crossroads. They can either uphold public trust, facilitate an informed citizenry, and champion government transparency—or act as saboteurs, suppressing journalists, diverting funds, growing stubborn in defiance, and prioritizing self-interest over national progress. The public is watching, and the demand for integrity, accountability, and genuine public service has never been louder.
