By Daniel Bampoe
Former Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Mark Okraku Mantey, has publicly questioned the ethical conduct of media personality and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Gilbert Abeiku Aggrey, popularly known as Abeiku Santana, for continuing to host a daily radio show while holding public office.
In an interview on Joy FM, Okraku Mantey raised alarm over what he described as an inappropriate overlap of media and public service responsibilities.
“Why is Abeiku Santana going on air, holding a public office, and still working at Okay FM?” he asked.
“If you’re a government appointee, are you allowed to go on air and do another job during working hours?”
Okraku Mantey, who served as Deputy Minister from 2021 to 2025, argued that such conduct may violate regulations set by the Public Services Commission, which stipulate that appointees dedicate their official working hours solely to public duties.
Abeiku Santana, a seasoned broadcaster with over two decades in media, was appointed as Deputy CEO of the GTA in February 2025.
Known for his advocacy for Ghanaian tourism, Santana’s appointment was welcomed by sections of the public who cited his experience in promoting the country’s heritage.
However, his continued role as host of the “Ekwanso Dwoodwoo” drive-time show on Okay FM has triggered public debate.
Okraku Mantey emphasized that the integrity of public institutions is at stake when officeholders mix their official duties with private engagements.
He cited Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the former Minister of Works and Housing and a broadcaster, as an example of how professionals should transition from media to public service.
“Kojo Oppong Nkrumah resigned from Joy FM before going into politics. That’s the benchmark,” he noted.
In response to the criticism, Abeiku Santana took to social media to describe the claims as misleading and untrue.
“The allegations by Mr. Okraku Mantey are false,” he stated, adding that he remains committed to his role at the GTA.
Addressing the concerns, Santana admitted he had not yet reviewed the specific legal provisions governing public service conduct but insisted he was aware of the constitutional and ministerial guidelines.
“Public officials should not use official hours for other jobs,” he acknowledged. “However, there is room to host a weekly program on tourism or culture, pro bono, outside working hours.”
The controversy has reignited discussions on the ethical boundaries of public service and the need for enforcement of existing guidelines.
Critics argue that public confidence in institutions may be eroded if rules are selectively applied.
This development also comes at a time when the government is under increasing scrutiny for transparency and accountability in public appointments, especially within the creative and tourism sectors.
