The Ghana Publishing Company Limited (GPCL) has moved to set the record straight amid a public dispute over who deserves credit for the state-owned publisher’s recent revival, firmly rejecting claims by former Managing Director David Asante that the company’s progress predates the current administration.
The disagreement emerged after President John Dramani Mahama, during a landmark visit to GPCL on January 8, 2026, praised management for transforming the company from a neglected institution into a functioning and modern enterprise. Mr. Asante subsequently challenged the President’s remarks, insisting on social media that reforms undertaken during his tenure between 2017 and 2024 laid the foundation for the turnaround.
In response, GPCL issued a detailed statement disputing that narrative and accusing the former MD of overstating his role while downplaying the work of others. The company argued that Mr. Asante benefited from assets and financial resources left behind by his predecessor, David Dzreke, but failed to acknowledge those contributions.
GPCL also questioned some of the projects Mr. Asante cited as achievements, including the acquisition of a Heidelberg printing machine which, according to the company, was an outdated 1993 model that never became operational despite costly repairs. Claims about election-related printing contracts and the financial performance of the Kumasi branch were similarly challenged, with GPCL stating that those contracts were secured before Asante’s tenure and that the Kumasi office functioned mainly as a sales outlet.
The statement further raised concerns about financial management during the former MD’s administration, alleging questionable expenditure decisions and the accumulation of debts, even as the company received significant rental income in 2024.
In contrast, GPCL highlighted what it described as concrete gains under the current management, including improved staff welfare through salary increases and bonuses, new vehicle acquisitions, and the establishment of a digital printing centre valued at $350,000 within a short period.
Reaffirming its support for President Mahama’s broader reform agenda, GPCL said its focus remains on building a modern, efficient publishing institution and cautioned against distractions arising from what it termed self-promotional claims by former officials.
The exchange has brought renewed public attention to governance, continuity, and accountability within state-owned enterprises, as well as the challenge of attributing credit for long-term institutional reform.
