Are you an NPP journalist or an NDC journalist? – KSM decries media polarization

Veteran comedian, filmmaker, and media personality Kwaku Sintim-Misa, popularly known as KSM, has taken a critical swipe at the current state of journalism in Ghana, lamenting its decline into sensationalism and political partisanship.

Speaking on The Career Trail programme aired on Joy Learning TV and Joy News, KSM expressed his dismay at what he sees as the erosion of professionalism in the media space.

“Unfortunately, in Ghana, journalism has become politicized. Are you an NPP journalist or an NDC journalist? That’s the kind of thing we’re seeing now, and it’s unfortunate,” he said, bemoaning the increasing alignment of journalists with political camps.

He also criticized the media’s fixation on shallow and attention-grabbing content, driven more by clicks and hype than facts and public service.

“The problem is that it’s easier to go for the sensational. It’s easier to talk about petty, mediocre things. And sadly, there’s an audience for that,” he observed.

According to KSM, this shift has been made worse by the rise of digital platforms where many bloggers and content creators opt for drama over substance.

“Many journalists, especially bloggers, choose that path because that’s where they get attention,” he added.

“Journalism has become cheap and sensational, not factual,” he remarked pointedly, noting how online and social media have disrupted the traditional standards of the profession. “With the introduction of online and social media, there’s been a disruption. In order to stay relevant and compete, many feel they must go down that path.”

However, KSM acknowledged that not all hope is lost, citing some shining examples in the field.

“There are still brilliant journalists out there. Look at Erastus Asare, look at the kind of work he is doing. He is a journalist. It is just amazing.”

He ended with a call to action, encouraging aspiring journalists to chart a different path. “Make a conscious effort to set yourself apart. Focus on the kind of journalism that uplifts and informs, not the other way round.”