Broadcast journalist and media personality Bridget Otoo has been appointed as a presidential staffer at the Office of the President, John Dramani Mahama.
Bridget will serve in the capacity of Presidential Staffer in charge of Government Communications, a role that positions her at the heart of state messaging and media coordination.
Bridget Otoo, known for her fearless commentary and advocacy on social and political issues, has been a notable voice in Ghana’s media space. From her days as a news anchor to her work as a freelance journalist, she has cultivated a reputation for bold journalism.
In a personal post shared on her official Facebook page, Bridget reflected on her appointment and the journey leading up to it.
“So it begins…On January 7, I awoke like most Ghanaians, jittery with anticipation and ready to witness the swearing-in of our new President – a President chosen in a historic landslide victory to reset the fates of our beloved country, Ghana.
“After the preceding hard years supporting and campaigning for His Excellency, back when some thought it was too ‘riskey’ to do so, I had always pictured the celebration and fan fare that would follow the victory in grand style but fate it seemed, had other plans and events would instead play out with me watching our victory lap from a hospital bed after what was meant to be a routine health checkup turned into a hospital admission spanning weeks.”
Bridget Otoo
According to Bridget, her silver lining, however, was that she could experience it vicariously through her husband Van and his cousin Richard, who were in attendance, giving her live, detailed updates that would rival the best news channels.
“So with all the faith and trust I have in the NDC government, I was deeply honoured to be considered for a role in helping shape its mandate, once I was back on my feet. This appointment to serve at the Seat of Government as a ‘Presidential Staffer, Government Communications’, although earned on my part through grit, dedication, and hard work, is still an incredible privilege that I intend to prove myself worthy of, for the duration of my service.”
Bridget Otoo
She went on to express gratitude to President Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama for their support, as well as to Joyce Bawa Mogtari, Stan Xoese Dogbe, Felix Kwakye Fosu, and grassroots supporters of the NDC for their encouragement and belief in her.
Bridget Otoo’s appointment has been met with interest from both media and political watchers, many of whom see her entry into formal public service as a natural extension of her years of advocacy and political engagement.
Her role is expected to contribute to the government’s communication strategy during this administration.
Bridget Otoo’s Activism, Advocacy
Bridget Otoo’s career has been distinguished by her outspoken advocacy on pressing social issues, particularly her active participation in the Occupy Julorbi House protests that aimed to address rampant economic hardship, astronomical living costs, and demand accountability from the government.
Additionally, she has been a strong supporter of LGBTQI+ rights in Ghana, a topic that remains contentious in the country. Her appointment is expected to introduce a progressive and fresh perspective to the administration’s public engagement and media interactions.
In September 2023, she prominently participated in the “Occupy Julorbi House” protests in Accra. This significant movement aimed to bring attention to critical issues such as economic hardship and government accountability.
During the protests, Otoo was arrested, which underscored her unwavering dedication to social justice and activism.
As a presidential staffer, Otoo’s responsibilities are likely to encompass advising on media relations, formulating comprehensive communication strategies, crafting public messaging, and representing the administration in various public forums.
Her appointment highlights the administration’s recognition of the vital role effective communication plays in governance and public engagement.
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