Investigative journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni recently shared the difficulties he faced in attempting to interview President Akufo-Addo for his upcoming book, “The President Ghana Never Got.” The 400-page book chronicles significant events during the President’s eight-year tenure.
Awuni revealed on JoyNews’ AM Show that he initially sought an interview with President Akufo-Addo through his cousin, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko. Despite his efforts, he could not secure a meeting. “I wanted to speak to President Akufo-Addo while writing this book,” he recounted. “I remember talking to his cousin, Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko.”
Awuni continued, noting that the President was reportedly displeased with his work. “People told me the President wasn’t happy with my work. I asked Gabby if I could speak to him, but he said, ‘I don’t think he will speak to you.’ When I asked why, he explained, ‘The President thinks you’ve been mean to him.'” Awuni pointed out that he had previously interviewed former President Mahama despite criticizing him. Otchere-Darko responded by emphasizing that people handle criticism differently. “People are different in how they process things,” he said.
Despite this initial setback, Awuni did not give up. He reached out to the President’s lawyer, Ekow Essuman, who suggested that Otchere-Darko might be able to persuade the President. Awuni then returned to Otchere-Darko, who advised him to write a formal request to the President. However, due to time constraints and a looming deadline, Awuni decided not to pursue this further.
Although he did not manage to interview President Akufo-Addo, Awuni conducted extensive interviews with other government officials. These discussions provided valuable insights into the administration’s decisions. “I spoke to many people within his government who confirmed various details. I also had a two-hour interview with Gabby, covering decisions, family, and other topics,” Awuni said.
Awuni stressed that, despite missing out on a direct conversation with the President, he believed he captured the essence of the administration’s workings. “I don’t think I missed anything significant from not speaking to the President. I would have loved to, but circumstances didn’t permit,” he emphasized.
“The President Ghana Never Got” is a 400-page book divided into 40 chapters, delving into President Akufo-Addo’s reign. Awuni has described the book as containing “revealing and riveting content, which some may find explosive.” The book launch is scheduled for August 8, 2024, at the Christ the King Parish Hall, opposite the Jubilee House in Accra.
This project continues Awuni’s tradition of documenting Ghana’s political history. In 2016, as former President John Dramani Mahama prepared to leave office, Awuni released a book on him titled “The Fourth John: Reign, Rejection & Rebound.” Like his previous work, “The President Ghana Never Got” promises to offer readers a compelling and nuanced understanding of the current administration’s key decisions.
