Former President John Dramani Mahama is clearly turning to the country’s media industry for fresh faces in governance, with at least 14 well-known personalities from the media space now holding various roles under his administration.
The latest addition, Mugabe Salifu Maase, was officially appointed on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, to the board of the Tema Oil Refinery (TOR). His name joins a growing list of former journalists, broadcasters, and public figures who’ve transitioned into government roles, signaling what appears to be a deliberate strategy to blend communication expertise with political leadership.
Here’s a breakdown of the media professionals now serving in Mahama’s administration:
🔹 Dr. Randy Abbey – Once the face of Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV, the seasoned broadcaster and football administrator now acts as CEO of COCOBOD.
🔹 Stanislav Xoese Dogbe – The former Joy FM journalist has returned to the corridors of power as Deputy Chief of Staff (Operations), after serving in a similar capacity during Mahama’s earlier presidency.
🔹 Shamima Muslim – Formerly with Citi FM and Metro TV, and founder of AWMA (Alliance for Women in Media Africa), she now serves as Deputy Presidential Spokesperson.
🔹 Kofi Okyere-Darko (KOD) – Known for his style and flair in both radio and fashion, KOD is now Director of Diaspora Affairs.
🔹 Abeiku Santana – One of Ghana’s most prominent radio voices, Santana has been appointed Deputy CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, leveraging his tourism advocacy work.
🔹 John Dumelo – Actor, politician, and farmer, Dumelo now holds the position of Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture.
🔹 Dzifa Gomashie – A veteran actress and policy expert, Gomashie now heads the Ministry for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts.
🔹 Rex Omar – The highlife legend and industry advocate is a Presidential Staffer in charge of the Black Star Experience, a major cultural initiative.
🔹 James Gardiner – The actor and TV personality has taken up the role of Deputy Executive Secretary at the National Film Authority.
🔹 Kwame Gyan – With experience in both the media and academic circles, he’s now a Communications Consultant at the Office of the President.
🔹 Paa Kwesi Asare – Former Head of Business at TV3 and winner of the 2023 BBC Komla Dumor Award, he now serves at the Bank of Ghana’s Communications Department.
🔹 Prince Kwame Minkah – The former host of Power FM’s breakfast show, who also worked at Citi FM and TV Africa, is now Media Relations Officer at Ghana Gold Board (GoldBod).
🔹 Bridget Otoo – A familiar face from TV3 and a strong media voice on governance, Otoo now serves as a Presidential Staffer responsible for Government Communications.
🔹 Mugabe Maase – Former Power FM boss and once part of the infamous “Montie 3”, Mugabe’s new role as TOR board member places him squarely in the heart of Ghana’s energy sector.
From radio waves and TV screens to boardrooms and ministries, Mahama’s team is increasingly reflecting the faces and voices that once shaped public opinion from behind microphones. Whether this strategy will enhance his administration’s communication strength or invite criticism over political favoritism remains to be seen.
Source: NewsandVibes.com
