SECTOR 4 News reporting is frequently full of metaphors and embellishments, which distort the essence of stories. On-air discussions are habitually unprofessional. People are accused of wrongdoing without being heard: “Victims” of alleged misconduct are interviewed live and the “suspect” is urged to call to defend him-/herself without any prior warning. The language used is often indecent and sexualised. The behaviour of politicians on air contributes to the malaise. They usually trade insults and unsubstantiated allegations. Broadcasting stations tend to invite only politicians to such discussions, rather than a broad range of other stakeholders in civil society, who are affected by the issues debated. Talk shows are thus turned into political platforms for the two main political parties NDC and NPP and citizens not affiliated to these formations tend to shy away from such discussions rather than associating themselves with any of the two. As a result many radio programmes contribute to the separation of Ghanaian society into two factions and tensions between them. There is an urgent need for editors to get together to address these tendencies which are quite offensive and an indication of disregard for the interests of the general public. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator. 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 2.5 (2008: 2.5; 2006: 2.8) 4.3 The media cover the full spectrum of events, issues and cultures, including business/economics, cultural, local and investigative stories. The range of issues covered by the media, both print and broadcasting, is broad but skewed in favour of political office holders. Media “actually ride on the back of politicians’ discourses”. Livelihood and labour issues, topics concerning women, 48 AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER GHANA 2011