Across the globe, public trust in media institutions is wavering. In Ghana, this crisis of confidence is amplified by concerns over journalistic integrity and the increasing influence of political partisanship. Kwaku Sintim-Misa (KSM), a veteran media personality in Ghana, recently voiced his concerns on The Career Trail, highlighting a perceived decline in the quality of journalism in Ghana, attributing it to politicization and the pursuit of sensationalism. The current state of journalism in Ghana is under scrutiny, prompting discussions about its direction and the factors shaping its evolution.

KSM’s critique underscores deeper issues affecting the media landscape, raising questions about the role of journalists in upholding truth and serving the public interest.

The Politicization of Ghanaian Journalism

One of KSM’s most pressing concerns is the extent to which journalism in Ghana has become entangled with political affiliations. He observes a media landscape increasingly divided along party lines, with journalists often perceived as either NPP (New Patriotic Party) or NDC (National Democratic Congress) supporters.

“Unfortunately, in Ghana, journalism has become politicised. Are you an NPP journalist or an NDC journalist? That’s the kind of thing we’re seeing now, and it’s unfortunate.”

This political alignment, according to KSM, compromises journalistic integrity and objectivity. When journalists are seen as mouthpieces for political parties, their ability to report fairly and accurately diminishes, leading to a skewed representation of reality. Facts may be omitted or twisted to favor a particular political agenda, eroding public trust in the media’s ability to hold power accountable.

The increasing politicization contributes to a dangerous environment where the truth is often obscured by partisan interests.

The Rise of Sensationalism and “Cheap” Journalism

Beyond political bias, KSM also laments the rise of sensationalism and “cheap” journalism, driven by the pursuit of clicks and fleeting attention. The pressure to attract eyeballs in a competitive media market often leads to prioritizing sensational stories over more substantive and meaningful content. The focus on journalism in Ghana seems to be shifting towards appealing to emotions rather than informing the public.

“The problem is that it’s easier to go for the sensational. It’s easier to talk about petty, mediocre things. And sadly, there’s an audience for that.”

The advent of online platforms and social media has exacerbated this trend. The ease with which unverified information can spread online has created a challenging environment for journalists committed to accuracy and responsible reporting. The lack of accountability on social media further contributes to the erosion of journalistic standards, as sensationalized or false information can quickly go viral without proper fact-checking.

KSM’s Call to Action: Upholding Truth and Purpose

Despite his concerns, KSM remains optimistic about the future of journalism in Ghana. He encourages young people to enter the field, emphasizing the importance of upholding truth and purpose in their work. He believes that aspiring journalists can distinguish themselves by focusing on impactful storytelling that benefits society, not just pandering to sensationalism.

“Make a conscious effort to set yourself apart. Focus on the kind of journalism that uplifts and informs, not the other way round.”

KSM points to examples of excellence within the profession, highlighting journalists who are making a positive impact through their work. He specifically mentions Erastus Asare Donkor as a brilliant journalist who exemplifies the values of integrity and impactful storytelling.

“There are still brilliant journalists out there. Look at Erastus Asare, look at the kind of works he is doing. He is a journalist. It is just amazing.”

These examples serve as a reminder that despite the challenges, there is still room for ethical and impactful journalism in Ghana.

In summary, KSM’s concerns about journalism in Ghana revolve around the damaging effects of politicization, the allure of sensationalism, and a perceived decline in in-depth reporting. His call to action emphasizes the need for aspiring journalists to prioritize truth, purpose, and ethical conduct. By upholding these values, journalists can contribute to a more informed and empowered society and elevate the standards of journalism in Ghana. Share your thoughts on the challenges facing journalism in Ghana and suggest solutions.