I have been observing proceedings in our media space for the past couple of months on reckless reportage that continues to be a canker among some media outlets in the country.
Besides, as a social commentator, I find it deeply troubling when individuals who have committed themselves to service and integrity are unfairly dragged into controversies they know nothing about. The recent ghost names scandal at the National Service Authority (NSA) has rightly attracted public attention, but in the heat of the discourse, one name was wrongfully linked to the issue, Mr. Mark Yaw Danso, the NSA’s Accountant.
Facts
From the onset, the facts were clear that Mr. Danso’s appointment and assumption of duty occurred after the period under which the alleged scandal was said to have taken place. That alone should have shielded him from any association with the controversy. Yet, in their pursuit of sensational headlines, some media outlets went ahead to tag his name to the matter, creating unnecessary doubts about his integrity. Such reportage is not only careless but unjust, for it risks destroying reputations that have taken years of diligence and professionalism to build.
According to a man I met a couple of days ago, Mr. Danso, whether professionally or personally, is a man of discipline, humility, and fairness. “He is meticulous in his work, approachable to colleagues, and uncompromising when it comes to accountability. These are precisely the qualities needed in an officer responsible for safeguarding public funds.”
No connection
To attempt to smear such a man with allegations he had no connection with is to undermine the very principles of fairness and truth that journalism ought to uphold.
From my checks, Mr. Mark Yaw Danso’s name has not appeared in any official investigation records or findings as part of the alleged individuals involved in the ghost names scandal. This means the earlier negative reportage has no factual basis. Yet, sadly, those erroneous stories still remain online, unfairly shaping public perception about an innocent man. In any decent society, media houses that erred would have taken steps to retract or correct the misleading reports. Anything less is an injustice to Mr. Danso, the values of accurate and responsible journalism.
Measures
Reliable information at my disposal tells that Mr. Danso will champion measures to strengthen the NSA’s financial management systems. Per my investigations, I know he will consistently advocate for tighter internal controls, improved accountability, and staff training to safeguard the institution. I believe these will be the actions of a man determined to protect public resources, not exploit them.
Another fact is that as Ghanaians, we must remember that behind every headline is a human being with a family, a career, and a reputation. Careless reporting damages individuals and erodes public trust in our media landscape. Mr. Mark Yaw Danso did not deserve the stain of such false association, and it is only right that his name is cleared of any wrongdoing.
To this end, I call on the media outlets that misreported this matter to do the honourable thing: tell the true state of affairs. The Ghanaian public deserves truth, and Mr. Danso deserves the dignity he has earned through years of honest service.
The Writer is a Social Commentator at Ahafo.
