ACCRA, Sept 10 (The African Portal) – At exactly 8 p.m. today, inside the Jubilee House in Accra, Ghanaian journalists will have a rare opportunity to hold President John Dramani Mahama accountable for his stewardship during the first eight months of his second term in office, which began on January 7, 2025.
This tradition, introduced by past leaders and sustained by President Mahama, is a democratic exercise worth celebrating. It allows the President to meet the press, respond directly to the people’s concerns, and deepen accountability. In a continent where such engagements are rare, Ghana continues to shine as a beacon of democratic practice.
What makes this evening especially unique is the freedom it gives journalists. With no restrictions on the scope of questions, the stage is wide open to demand answers on issues that matter to ordinary Ghanaians; questions that citizens themselves may never get the chance to ask. This is why the journalists selected for tonight’s encounter owe it to their audiences – listeners, viewers, readers, and indeed the entire nation, to make their questions count.
Too often, these opportunities are squandered. Some journalists fall into the trap of pleasantries and fraternal greetings, forgetting the essence of the moment. While a touch of humour or rapport is acceptable, the heart of the matter must not be lost. This is the time to research thoroughly, ask boldly, and insist on answers that reflect the pressing concerns of the people.
Not every journalist in Ghana will have the privilege of facing the President tonight. Those who do must remember that they represent the collective voice of the nation. Whether the questions asked are sharp or shallow, the Ghanaian public—watching and listening attentively, will be the ultimate judge.
Therefore, preparation is key. Accredited journalists should walk into the Jubilee House with at least ten well-researched questions. This way, if some are already asked, they will still have strong alternatives. Questions should also evolve from the President’s own responses, ensuring follow-ups that bring clarity and accountability. And if all your questions have already been covered, resist the urge to ask something weak or unresearched; it is better to remain silent than to embarrass yourself and, by extension, your profession.
But beyond the questions, tonight’s encounter is also about the future of press freedom in Ghana. Only recently, during a visit by the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to the Jubilee House, President Mahama expressed concern about the country’s declining press freedom ranking. He pledged to work with the GJA and the media fraternity to reposition Ghana as a leader in free expression. This evening’s exercise, coming so soon after that meeting, is a testament to that commitment.
For journalists, this is more than a duty, it is an honour. The power of the press lies not in flattery, but in fearless questioning. Tonight, Ghanaian journalists must rise to the occasion, seize the moment, and ask the questions that truly matter.
The writer is the Public Affairs Officer of the Ghana Journalists Association
