Opinions of Wednesday, 6 February 2013
Columnist: Obeng, Raymond
‘I can accept failure, everybody fails at something. But I can’t accept not trying’. - Michael Jordan.
It is one thing to aspire to become Information and Media Relations Minister, and it is another thing to research issues before you open your mouth wide enough to release unnecessary information and lies to the public. The learned and the citizens of Ghana as a whole cannot be fooled. But it is not too late for Mr. Mahama Ayariga to learn from his bombshell and endeavor never to come out to tell Ghanaians what he thinks is the right information. Ghana is fed up with Ghanaian politicians who believe they know it all, and don’t even consult authorities, or have time to study before they hurriedly speak about pertinent issues in government which need to be handled and addressed professionally.
Mr. Mahama Ayariga on his first ever press conference as Information and Media Relations Minister told the general public that President of Ghana, H.E President J.D Mahama never had relationship with Andrews Solomon, the American gay rights activist before the President’s launch of his book in N.Y last year. Such an untrue statement coming from a minister of state was quickly refuted by the Presidency to clear its public image, and as custom demands, the minister has since apologized. But Ghanaians are watching him closely as he tries to recognize and know about his job description as Minister of Information and Media Relations, not one designated for a political party’s propaganda.
Such blunders and their likes bring confusion in government. Complete falsehood soil government’ public image. These statements that are communicated without accurate consultation, learning and confirmation are a disservice to the entire citizenry. Ghanaians have had enough of such incorrect statements and misinformation in the last four years, and it rests on the shoulders of the President, a very humble and renowned Communication expert, to ensure that his ministers know their roles as professionals.
Ghana needs ministers who will make adequate search for accurate and consistent information, and not those who will just throw dust in the eyes of Ghanaians, thinking that they will score some political points. The man who tries to peep through two different holes simultaneously with his eyes loses both eyes. A minister of Information and Media Relations cannot serve as a Propaganda Secretary for his political party at the same time. Know your job, Mr. Minister, and it will help you build your image.