Asaase@5: Journalism must hold power accountable without malice – Gabby

Board Chair of Asaase Broadcasting Corporation, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has urged Ghanaian journalists to hold those in power to account, but without resorting to vindictiveness or sensationalism.

Marking the anniversary of the Asaase group of radio stations on Saturday Mr Otchere-Darko used a personal Facebook post to reflect on the broadcaster’s growth and values.

He stressed that journalism must remain principled, respectful, and focused on the public interest.

“We will continue to put those who govern on our behalf on their toes,” he wrote.

“Not by seeking to trip politicians and others in leadership positions, but by ensuring they perform per their mandate for the collective good.”

The post coincided with the fifth anniversary of Asaase 99.5 in Accra, the flagship station of the group.

Sister stations in Kumasi (Asaase 98.5), Cape Coast (Asaase 100.3), and Tamale (Asaase 99.7) marked their own respective milestones — four years and three years.

Otchere-Darko’s message was laced with emotion as he noted that 14 June is also the birthday of his late mother. Yet the tone remained clear-eyed and firm on the network’s editorial direction.

“We do not believe in smear campaigns, we do not believe in pull-them-down yellow journalism,” he said, adding that while the network may not always be perfect, it remains committed to learning and improving through audience feedback.

Asaase Radio, launched in 2020, has built a reputation for blending serious news coverage with lifestyle and music programming, while projecting a Pan-African identity.

“We believe in Africa,” the Board Chair declared.

“We promise to offer you bolder and constructive journalism with a strong Pan-African presence in news, music and lifestyle.”

As Ghana’s media landscape becomes increasingly crowded and politically charged, Asaase’s leadership appears to be staking a claim on high editorial standards — rooted in decency, accuracy, and public accountability.