Hosts of political shows on pro-National Democratic Congress (NDC) radio stations—Accra FM and Power FM—have been cited as the worst offenders in the use of indecent language in June 2024.
The host of The Citizen Show on Accra-based Accra FM, Kwabena Bobie Ansah, recorded the highest number of violations with 14 indecent expressions. This was followed by Mugabe Maase, host of Inside Politics on Power FM, who recorded six violations.
These findings are contained in a report released by the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) on 16th July 2024. The June 2024 report is the first edition of MFWA’s Language Monitoring on radio stations ahead of Ghana’s 2024 elections.
The monitoring exercise was conducted from June 1 to June 30, 2024, across nine radio stations and identified 46 incidents of indecent expressions. Accra FM (22) and Power FM (11) recorded 33 out of the 46 indecent expressions representing over 70%.
The 46 infractions identified were predominantly insulting and offensive comments and unsubstantiated allegations made during discussions on elections, security, corruption, and development projects.
The findings raise concerns about the role of show hosts who are expected to moderate discussions and maintain decorum. The significant involvement of show hosts like Kwabena Bobie Ansah and Mugabe Maase in making indecent expressions undermines this role and contributes to a toxic media environment.
The full report can be accessed here.
For further information, contact the Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Manager, Daniel Kwame Amofo Adjei (0243767263).