Wontumi TV, a media outlet owned by New Patriotic Party (NPP) stalwart Bernard Antwi Boasiako, known as Chairman Wontumi, has issued a formal apology to President John Dramani Mahama, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and the general public.
The apology, released on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 2:38 PM GMT, addresses derogatory remarks made by presenter Akyenkwaa Nana Kofi Asare on August 9, 2025, linking the President to a recent military helicopter crash. The station’s management emphasized that the comments did not reflect its values of professionalism and fairness.
Apology Statement from Wontumi TV (Read statement here)
The apology comes amid heightened scrutiny of Wontumi, who is currently under investigation by the Economic and Organized Crime Office (EOCO) for alleged fraud, money laundering, and financial loss to the state, as reported by Ghanamma.com on June 13, 2025.
This legal pressure, combined with Mahama’s return to power in January 2025, may have prompted the rare retraction. A 2023 study by the Media Foundation for West Africa noted that only 12% of political media outlets in Ghana issue formal apologies, making Wontumi TV’s action a notable exception.
The statement, signed by Wontumi TV’s management, expressed regret for any distress caused to Mahama, the NDC, and the families affected by the helicopter crash. It clarified that the remarks were made without evidence and went against the station’s editorial policy. This move follows public outcry and potential legal threats, reflecting a shift in the media landscape as Mahama’s administration seeks to address irresponsible journalism.
The controversy has reignited discussions about media accountability in Ghana, a country where political rhetoric often dominates airwaves. The Ghanaian Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) previously found Mahama in violation of gift policies in 2016, suggesting a history of media scrutiny that now appears to extend to his critics. Wontumi TV’s apology may signal a cautious approach to avoid further escalation under the current government.
Social media reactions have been mixed, with some users like @joromi_ questioning the sincerity of the apology, suggesting it was coerced, while others, including @1BongoIdeas, used the opportunity to mock the station with local proverbs. Wontumi TV responded defensively, with a post at 4:02 PM GMT acknowledging an “order” to apologize and defending its professionalism. This exchange highlights the polarized views on the issue.
Analysts suggest the apology could mark a turning point in Ghanaian political discourse, especially as Mahama’s administration pushes for greater media responsibility. With Wontumi facing ongoing EOCO probes, the incident may also influence the NPP’s strategy ahead of future elections. For now, Wontumi TV’s retraction serves as a public relations move, though its long-term impact remains uncertain.
As of 5:42 PM GMT on August 12, 2025, the apology has sparked widespread debate, with many awaiting Mahama’s response. The incident underscores the delicate balance between free speech and accountability in Ghana’s vibrant media environment, potentially setting a precedent for how political outlets navigate criticism in the post-2025 political landscape.
