Entertainment or show business issues have become prominent on radio thanks to Prime I’s Solid Gold Countdown on Radio Gold and ‘cleric’ DJ Abio and his able panel’s 205 on Channel R.
The deliberation on entertainment—related issues on radio has taken a different and better dimension, thanks to Entertainment Review on Peace FM hosted by Kwasi Aboagye.
The show has become popular with discerning listeners and it has made the host even more popular - so popular he now graces television shows and gets recognition at various events.
But then, like anyone else, Kwasi Aboagye is not infallible as many questions have been raised about his handling of the Entertainment Review show.
It has been observed that the host does not have complete control and a firm grip on the show. It is believed that some of the issues brought up for discussion and certain questions he poses do not really originate from him but are from some big guns at the station who cajole him to probe certain issues.
The ‘Darling Boy’ has also been observed to be biased in his presentation of some issues for discussion. He brings up some issues for discussion and unfairly avoids touching others.
He also refuses to mention personalities involved in some controversial issues.
Why would Kwasi allow his panelists to discuss and criticize issues and admonish some personalities but advertently shield others?
Why would he activate the phone lines and allow text messages from listeners on certain issues and then refuse to read messages or activate the phone lines on other issues? The Alhaji Sidiku Buari and Faisal Helwani studio encounter is an example.
Kwasi Aboagye is a good interviewer but his interviewing skills have become suspect in recent times as he gets too emotional at times.
He allows his emotions to do the questioning and some issues he raises for discussions are based on hear-say: “Yesterday, I heard that…,” and “Today, I heard this.”
We don’t get to know who said what and where it was mentioned. Such practice is unwholesome. Controversial issues must always be discussed based on facts.
Over the past weeks, Kwasi has undoubtedly exhibited his contempt for Multimedia Broadcasting Company, owners of Joy FM, Adom FM, and others on his show — especially on issues relating to myjoyonline’s reportage on Mufty Dabre’s death and Kojo Preko and Jerry Mordy’s move to Asempa FM.
He becomes too passionate on issues concerning Multimedia Broadcasting.
Kwasi has the right to hold his own views but as a host, he ought to be dispassionate and neutral.