Broadcaster and political commentator Paul Adom-Otchere has criticised what he describes as a lack of honest counsel within the Presidency following the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service held by President John Dramani Mahama.
Speaking on his programme ‘Gooď Evening Ghana’, Adom-Otchere questioned why none of the President’s advisers appeared willing to caution him about what he believes were the potential public relations implications of the event. He argued that leaders rely on trusted aides to offer objective and candid advice, especially on matters that could attract public scrutiny.
According to him, every presidency should have individuals who are prepared to tell the President when a decision may not be well received by the public. He maintained that surrounding a leader with people who merely endorse every decision does more harm than good, as it leaves room for avoidable controversies.
Adom-Otchere suggested that the National Prayer and Thanksgiving Service became the subject of public debate because no one within the President’s inner circle appeared willing to raise concerns beforehand. In his view, effective governance depends not only on making decisions but also on receiving honest feedback from advisers, even when that advice may be uncomfortable.
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He further argued that the role of presidential advisers is not simply to agree with the Head of State but to ensure that government actions are carefully assessed from political, social and public-interest perspectives. He warned that when leaders are insulated from constructive criticism, they risk making decisions that generate unnecessary public backlash.
This debate adds to the broader national conversation on leadership, accountability and the importance of frank advice within government, particularly as the Mahama administration continues to implement its agenda.