In the latest bout of media-politics tension, the Minority Leader in Ghana's Parliament, Hon. Alexander Afenyo-Markin, publicly accused Joy FM of serving the interests of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC). Afenyo-Markin's comment sparked significant backlash, with many critics questioning the validity and fairness of his assertion.

Among the responses, a notable one came from Gary Al-Smith, a seasoned journalist, who countered by highlighting the historical relationship between the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the station. Al-Smith argued that no political party has benefited more from Joy FM's fearless, independent journalism than the NPP itself over the station's 28 years of operation. His rebuttal has added fuel to the ongoing debate about the role of the media in Ghanaian politics and the perception of bias in reporting.

Afenyo-Markin's Allegation: Media as a Political Tool?

Afenyo-Markin's statement accusing Joy FM of "doing the bidding of the NDC" is part of a broader trend in which political actors seek to cast certain media outlets as being aligned with particular political parties. In his view, Joy FM has shifted from its position as an independent media house to one that advances the agenda of the NDC, often providing a platform for opposition narratives while sidelining or critiquing the ruling party.

This accusation is reflective of a common phenomenon in democratic politics where political parties, when confronted with unfavorable media coverage, often accuse the press of bias. Such charges are intended to discredit the media's role as an impartial watchdog, suggesting that the news is not factual but tainted by political motivations. Afenyo-Markin's remarks thus raise important questions about the relationship between politicians and the press, particularly in Ghana's vibrant and sometimes polarizing political environment.

Gary Al-Smith's Rebuttal: Setting the Record Straight

In a swift and direct response, Gary Al-Smith, a respected journalist with an extensive track record, strongly disagreed with Afenyo-Markin's assessment. Al-Smith asserted that it is the New Patriotic Party (NPP), not the NDC, that has reaped the most benefits from Joy FM's history of independent journalism over the past 28 years. According to him, there is no comparison between the NPP's relationship with the station and that of the NDC, dismissing Afenyo-Markin's claim as baseless and revisionist.

Joy FM's Legacy of Independent Journalism

Established in 1995, Joy FM has built a reputation as one of Ghana's leading radio stations, known for its bold, investigative journalism and in-depth coverage of both national and international affairs. Over the years, the station has garnered respect from a broad cross-section of Ghanaian society for its fearless approach to holding leaders accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.

Al-Smith's argument is rooted in the fact that during the NPP's years in opposition, Joy FM was a critical voice in exposing government mismanagement, corruption, and abuses of power under the NDC governments. Indeed, the station's investigative journalism and public affairs programs often provided a platform for opposition voices, including those of the NPP, to air grievances and engage with the electorate. This helped shape public opinion and, arguably, contributed to the NPP's eventual electoral successes.

The journalist's point that the NPP has significantly benefited from Joy FM's independent reporting is underscored by key moments in Ghana's political history. For instance, the station played an instrumental role in covering critical national issues during the 2000 and 2016 elections, both of which saw the NPP ascend to power. During these periods, Joy FM's investigations into political scandals and governance failures provided crucial information to the public, enhancing transparency and accountability.

The Role of Media in Ghana's Democracy

The role of the media in any democracy is to act as the fourth estate—a check on the excesses of the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches of government. In Ghana, where political tensions can run high, the media often finds itself at the center of controversy, as different parties seek to influence public perception. However, the independence of the media is a cornerstone of democracy, allowing journalists to freely report on matters of national interest without fear or favor.

Joy FM's history demonstrates a commitment to these democratic principles. While their investigative reports and editorial choices may sometimes seem critical of one political party or another, this should not be construed as evidence of bias, but rather as a reflection of their role in upholding accountability and ensuring that the public is well-informed.

Al-Smith's defense of Joy FM, therefore, speaks to a larger issue: the media's ability to operate without undue pressure or politicization. His rebuttal emphasizes that journalists should not be vilified simply because their reports may not favor the ruling government at a particular time. The media's job is to ask tough questions and report the facts, regardless of the political party in power.

Afenyo-Markin's Comment in Context: A Broader Political Strategy?

Afenyo-Markin's comments might also be understood in the context of Ghana's highly competitive political landscape, where controlling the narrative is essential to electoral success. Accusing the media of bias has become a common strategy for political actors seeking to shift attention away from uncomfortable truths or unfavorable coverage. By labeling Joy FM as a mouthpiece for the NDC, Afenyo-Markin could be attempting to undermine the station's credibility in the eyes of the public, especially among NPP supporters.

However, this strategy could backfire if the public perceives his criticism as unfounded. Joy FM's track record of holding both NPP and NDC governments accountable provides it with a certain level of trust among its listeners. Attacking the station could alienate voters who see independent journalism as essential to Ghana's democracy, potentially weakening the NPP's own standing.

The NPP and Joy FM: Beneficiary or Victim?

Al-Smith's rebuttal raises an important point: whether the NPP sees itself as a beneficiary or a victim of Joy FM's journalism depends largely on its position in the political cycle. When in opposition, the NPP could rely on Joy FM to expose the failings of the NDC government. Now, in power, the NPP may find itself on the receiving end of the same scrutiny, which is a natural consequence of independent journalism.

What Al-Smith highlights is the double-edged nature of the relationship between media and political power. No party can expect to be free from criticism if it is serious about governance. The media, particularly stations like Joy FM, are not meant to serve any political party's agenda but to serve the public by providing factual, balanced, and investigative reporting.

Conclusion: The Need for a Constructive Relationship Between Media and Politics

The ongoing spat between Afenyo-Markin and Gary Al-Smith, centering on Joy FM's independence, reflects a broader conversation about the role of the media in Ghanaian politics. While politicians may sometimes feel aggrieved by critical reporting, they must recognize that a free and independent press is essential to democracy Rather than seeking to discredit the media, political actors should focus on engaging constructively with journalists, ensuring that their own actions are above reproach.

Joy FM's 28-year history as a bastion of independent journalism in Ghana cannot be erased by accusations of bias, especially when its record of holding all political actors accountable is taken into account. As Gary Al-Smith rightly pointed out, the NPP has, at various points, benefited immensely from the station's work. The party's current grievances, therefore, should be viewed as part of the natural tension that arises in any healthy democracy where the press fulfills its role of speaking truth to power.

Written by Michael Kwasi Ackumey

Consultant, Africa Development Council

Email: ackumey45@gmail.com