Indexing government scandals one at a time
Allegations have surfaced that journalists who attended Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s “Meet the Press” event on Sunday, August 25, received payments ranging from GHS 2,000 to GHS 10,000. The event, held at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel, aimed to promote the New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) manifesto.
Fact-Check Ghana investigated the claims following public concern. Several journalists who attended confirmed receiving payments, with amounts reportedly varying between GHS 2,000 and GHS 10,000. One journalist mentioned receiving GHS 10,000, along with paid travel and accommodation. Others reported sums between GHS 2,000 and GHS 5,000.
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, the Communication Director for the Bawumia Campaign, denied that journalists were paid GHS 10,000 or more, stating the highest amount given was between GHS 2,000 and GHS 5,000. He explained that additional funds were provided to cover accommodation and transportation for journalists traveling from outside Accra.
Despite Aboagye’s statements, some journalists outside Accra reported receiving GHS 10,000, claiming the payment was not intended for travel or accommodation. Journalists in Accra also confirmed receiving the same amount, raising further questions about the payments made during the media engagement.
Aug. 25, 2024
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