In Ghana's vibrant media landscape, few shows command as much attention as Kevin Taylor's "With All Due Respect".
Known for its unapologetic scrutiny of those in power, the program often cuts through the noise, pushing for accountability and transparency in governance.
However, a recent episode targeting the Minister of Education Haruna Iddrisu, and other Ministers of State has sparked a compelling counter narrative one that underscores the critical importance of factual accuracy and responsible critique in public discourse.
In the episode, Taylor accused Hon. Haruna Iddrisu and colleague ministers of state for relegating their deputies to the shadows, denying them meaningful ministerial assignments.
The charge was framed as an exposé of poor governance, implying a lack of inclusivity and effectiveness in the ministers operations.
Yet, a simple review of the public record for just one deputy, Dr. Clement Abass Apaak, reveals not a shadow but a whirlwind of activity, contradicting Taylor's assertions and raising questions about the diligence behind the critique.
Dr. Apaak ministrial Journey
Dr. Apaak's engagements over the past year paint a picture of a deputy minister deeply embedded in the machinery and public face of educational reform. Here are a few highlights:
- Digital Learning Initiatives: In April 2025, Dr. Apaak led the executive demonstration of the ASANKA offline learning platform, a project aimed at expanding access to education in underserved areas.
- International Representation: He represented the Ministry at the Association for the Development of Education in Africa (ADEA) Triennale, urging delegates to translate discussions into "tangible actions" for educational advancement across the continent.
- Project Oversight: Dr. Apaak chaired the critical oversight committee for the Ghana Learning Outcomes and Performance (GALOP) project, a multi-million-dollar initiative focused on improving learning outcomes in basic education.
- Stepping In for the Minister: On multiple occasions, he stood in for Minister Iddrisu at significant public events, including a major lecture at the University of Education, Winneba, and at the congregation of AAMUSTED, where he announced a policy to depoliticize the institution's name.
- Advocacy and Troubleshooting: Dr. Apaak intervened on behalf of students with disabilities at the University of Ghana, led investigations into controversial fee hikes, and defended the budget of the Student Loan Trust Fund in Parliament.
Each of these actions and other published assignments speaks to a deputy minister entrusted with substantial responsibilities and the confidence to execute them.
The contrast between Taylor's portrayal and the documented evidence is striking, pointing to a gap not of opinion, but of overlooked facts.
Sensationalism over Substance
This rebuttal transcends a mere defence of one official; it touches on a deeper concern in public discourse the tendency to prioritize sensationalism over substance, and personal narratives over nuanced governance realities.
Taylor’s framing of Minister Iddrisu as a “ licking on the back of some people” suggests a personal storyline nemesis imposed on the complex, often unglamorous work of governance.
The business of nation-building is not a personal feud. It is a collaborative, meticulous process involving committees, stakeholder engagements, policy launches, and parliamentary oversight.
When media commentary reduces this intricate tapestry to a simplistic narrative of conflict and neglect, it does a disservice to the public.
It obscures the actual work being done, for better or worse, and erodes the factual foundation necessary for true accountability. As the saying goes, "The football pitch must be clear; else, some players would voluntarily leave the pitch in the wee hours of the game."
In other words, fairness and factual integrity in public scrutiny are non-negotiables. When the field is muddied by baseless accusations and a disregard for evidence, those committed to genuine service may be driven away, leaving the arena to spectacles of conflict rather than constructive progress.
Responsible Journalism is key
The record of Dr. Apaak’s year is publicly available, a stark counterpoint to claims of inactivity.
It serves as a reminder that before launching “vulgar attacks,” there is no substitute for the hard, unglamorous work of research. For in the end, the most potent rebuke to negligence is not anger, but evidence.
As Ghana’s media navigates its crucial role in shaping public opinion, striking a balance between bold critique and factual rigor is imperative. It’s a balance that protects the political space from poisoning and ensures that scrutiny serves as a catalyst for improvement, not a weapon for division.
In the pursuit of better governance, let facts lead the conversation. Let’s champion a culture where critique is as informed as it is incisive, fostering accountability without sacrificing nuance.
Author of this article is : Abdul-Shakuru Zakaria
Public Relations Practitioner
Zakariaas18@gmail.com
Copyright © 1994 - 2026 GhanaWeb. All rights reserved.
