A wave of confusion swept through Ghana earlier this week as rumors circulated about actress and TV host Joselyn Dumas being named Deputy Director for Diaspora Affairs. Many took to social media to congratulate her, believing she had joined the list of public figures recently assigned government roles in the creative sector.
However, doubts started to arise as the story gained more visibility. Bridget Otoo, a prominent journalist, cast skepticism on the claim, posting on social media that the news was untrue. This sparked controversy, with critics accusing her of being bitter over not being appointed, while others praised her for encouraging verification and transparency.
The situation became even more contentious when several Kumawood actors spoke out, criticizing the apparent favoritism shown to English-speaking actors over their local-language counterparts. They questioned the fairness of the selection process and why their own contributions were being overlooked.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister of State for Government Communications, ultimately debunked the rumors, telling Fact-Check Ghana that no such appointment had taken place. Despite attempts to reach out to Joselyn Dumas for clarification, she remained silent, intensifying public curiosity.
This episode has reignited conversations around media accountability, the ease with which false narratives can spread, and how celebrities are selected for public roles. It has also led to renewed calls for transparency and merit-based appointments, highlighting the growing importance of fact-checking in today’s fast-paced media environment.
The incident serves as a reminder of the need for verification and transparency in the dissemination of information, particularly when it comes to public figures and government appointments. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to prioritize fact-checking and accuracy to prevent the spread of misinformation.