Media partisan politics in Ghana: Tracing its evolution under National Democratic Congress and New Patriotic Party governments

This study explored the evolution of media coverage in Ghanaian politics by comparing the National Democratic Congress (NDC) under President John Dramani Mahama (2012-2016) with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) under President Nana Akufo-Addo (2017-2024). Using Agenda-Setting Theory, the study examined the changes in media coverage patterns, thematic trends, and the media’s role in shaping public discourse, thereby shedding light on the complex interplay between media and politics in Ghana. Adopting a qualitative case study design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 25 media professionals across six regions, selected via purposive and snowball sampling. In addition, 20 key news articles published between 2012 and 2024, were reviewed to identify patterns in political reporting. The target population comprised experienced journalists and media practitioners actively engaged in political communication. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that although political bias and media ownership influenced reporting, many journalists sustained a critical watchdog role. The media consistently held both administrations accountable by highlighting issues such as corruption, governance failures, and economic hardship. The study concluded that Ghana’s media landscape, though politicised, continued to shape political narratives and public opinion. It recommended the promotion of press freedom, reform of media ownership structures, and the strengthening of ethical standards as necessary measures to preserve media independence and reinforce its democratic role.