Opinion: The Struggles of a Political Radio Producer in the South under the NDC
As radio producers, our core mandate is to lead advocacy by providing platforms for balanced, well-informed discourse to help our hosts educate the public on pressing issues. In politics especially, we offer airtime—often free of charge—to political actors for the public good.
This role is demanding. It involves constant mental exertion, high stress, and behind-the-scenes work to secure the right voices for the right conversations. However, for producers in the South—particularly in the Ashanti Region—this work becomes even more challenging under the NDC administration.
Why? Most NDC appointees traditionally do not hail from this part of the country. As a result, they often feel little political obligation to maintain strong ties with the region. Without parliamentary ambitions or party leadership goals tied to the South, engaging with local media becomes more of a courtesy than a necessity.
The power centers—the “paymasters”—are largely based in Accra or in regions perceived as more politically strategic. Naturally, appointees seek influence there, where it matters most for career progression. This means media outlets in the South often struggle to get ruling party voices on air.
Producers like myself are frequently met with rejected invitations or last-minute cancellations. When interviews are granted, they’re often treated as favors—easily withdrawn at the slightest inconvenience. Just this morning, a Majority MP on the Energy Committee declined to speak on the ‘Dumsor Levy,’ citing language barriers. After I clarified that we are a mid-urban station and he could blend English and Twi, he told me he was preparing for an interview with an Accra-based station and couldn’t oblige—perhaps, again, seeing it as a “privilege.”
This experience is all too common. And over time, it forces us to rely on opposition voices—many of whom have a stronger base in the South and are more willing to engage. Contrary to the perception that Kumasi-based media push an “opposition agenda,” the reality is that ruling party actors often fail to show up—believing their gains here are marginal and unaffected by media presence.
It is not my usual style to write opinion pieces. I prefer reporting facts and operating behind the scenes. But as a producer who sees the NDC’s gains in the Ashanti Region—from 26.79% in 2020 to 34.45% in 2024, with parliamentary seats increasing from 4 to 10—I feel compelled to speak. These gains risk being eroded if this region remains sidelined in government communication and engagement.
That said, I must commend a few NDC leaders who continue to show up and support our work: Shamima Muslim, Dzifa Gunu, George Opare Addo (Esq.), Alex Kwaku Asafo-Agyei, Hon Joseph Yammin and P.V. Jantuah Boateng Dadson (Yet to receive any appointment). Your consistency is appreciated.
There’s more to be done. Our democracy thrives when all regions, voices, and platforms are valued equally.
He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. – Matthew 11:15
~ Evans Osei-Bonsu
“Producer- ‘Pure Morning Drive’ @Pure FM.”
B.A, LL.B
