Joe Baidoe-Ansah – My big brother, from freedom fighter and award-winning journalist to politician

By Fiifi NETTEY

For over two decades, Joe Baidoe-Ansah has been more than just a friend to me—he’s been my big brother, mentor, confidant and life-long inspiration.

Our lives were first intersected in the early 1990s under the most unexpected yet impactful circumstances. It all began at No. 11 Hearts Street, Kokomlemle—our family home and, at the time, the headquarters of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA).

Back then, Baidoe-Ansah was the Executive Director of the Ghana Committee on Human and Peoples Rights. His office, located on the same premises, became a vibrant hub of activism and human rights advocacy. I remember the people trooping in and out, passionate conversations about justice and human rights issues. Little did I know that amid that energy was a man whose influence would shape my life.

One bright morning, as I lounged outside with friends, a taxi pulled up. Out stepped Baidoe-Ansah—sharp in appearance, calm in demeanor, yet with an unmistakable aura of purpose. He greeted us with a genuine, warm smile before briskly heading into his office. Moments later, he returned and asked if I could help him get that day’s newspapers. I didn’t hesitate. That simple request sparked the beginning of a deep and enduring relationship.

That day marked the first of many interactions. In no time, he became part of our household, engaging warmly with my parents. My late father was particularly fond of him. They shared countless jokes and stories, and laughter often echoed through the compound thanks to his quick wit and infectious humour.

Over time, our connection grew stronger. Every evening after work, I would walk him to the bus stop, and we’d discuss everything from Ghanaian politics to global affairs, from his bold visions for the country to reflections on life’s deeper meanings. He never treated me as a subordinate—always as a brother, an equal, someone whose thoughts and aspirations mattered.

A major highlight of our journey together was the day he asked me to accompany him to meet someone “very important.” I tagged along with curiosity—and found myself sitting in the office of none other than John Agyekum Kufuor, then flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and future President of Ghana. For a young man deeply interested in national affairs, it was a surreal experience.

I was stunned, inspired and honoured all at once. Baidoe-Ansah confided in me his plans to contest the Effia-Kwesimintsim parliamentary seat in the 2000 elections. From that moment, I became part of his quiet campaign team. Though he was mostly in Takoradi, I remained in Accra, always ready to run errands, coordinate communication or deliver essential documents on his behalf or send them to him in Takoradi.

When he won the parliamentary seat, I celebrated not just the victory of a candidate—but of a brother whose dreams and ideals I believed in. He went on to serve with distinction as Minister for Aviation, and later as Minister for Trade, Industry, Private Sector Development, and the President’s Special Initiatives. Yet through all the accolades and national responsibilities, he never let politics come between us. We remained as close as ever.

Whenever he was in Accra, we were inseparable. We frequented Heavy Do Chop Bar—his favourite spot for fufu, which he could eat every single day without tiring. We often drove together to places like the Ghana Club, where we would sit for hours, analysing national issues, sharing personal goals and dreaming up ways to move the country forward. Through him, I also developed a close relationship with Hon. Fritz Baffour, who treated me like a son.

I was a regular visitor to Parliament House, where staff often referred to me as his younger brother. Perhaps it was because of our bond—or maybe even our resemblance—but it was a title I carried with pride. He would frequently send me articles and press releases via WhatsApp, always seeking my thoughts, always listening.

What fascinated me most was his remarkable fluency in Ga. We never spoke in any other language. His command of it was so natural that many were surprised to learn he wasn’t a native speaker. Despite all our conversations, Baidoe-Ansah rarely spoke about his own accomplishments. It was others who filled me in on the remarkable story he was too humble to tell.

I came to learn that he was one of the brave souls who risked their lives during Ghana’s turbulent political years. Alongside figures like Kwesi Pratt Jnr, Akoto Ampaw and Johny Hanson, he was instrumental in the Movement for Freedom and Justice, a group that played a crucial role in ushering in the democratic dispensation we enjoy today. His activism, like his journalism, was driven by deep principles—an unwavering commitment to human rights, freedom of expression and justice.

He is a man of strong convictions. Many of the disagreements he’s had in politics or public discourse stem from his refusal to compromise on integrity. He is not swayed by popularity or personal gain; instead, he remains anchored to the ideals he fought for decades ago. He is also a prolific thinker—an intellectual who speaks and writes with clarity, courage and conviction. He doesn’t mince words. He believes in truth, no matter the cost.

On January 29, 1994—just a day after his birthday—Hon. Joe Baidoe-Ansah made history as the first Ghanaian journalist to receive the prestigious Sam Arthur Award for Best Investigative Journalism. His investigative work, marked by courage and a relentless pursuit of truth, inspired a generation of young journalists, including myself.

Though politics may have taken centre stage later in his life, journalism was his first love—and remains close to his heart. That’s why, no matter how high he rose, he always made time to visit the Ghana International Press Centre. Each time he was in town, he would stop by to see me, just like the old days.

Through the years, our bond has never wavered. His mentorship shaped my professional path. His friendship provided comfort during difficult times. His humility continues to inspire me.

I am grateful for that morning in Kokomlemle, for that request to buy newspapers, and for every moment that followed. I am proud to know him—not just as a public figure or politician—but as my big brother.

A man of integrity, vision, humility and unwavering love for Ghana. In a world that often celebrates the loudest voices and flashiest personalities, Hon. Joe Baidoe-Ansah stands out for his quiet strength, principled stance and deep compassion. Our journey together is one I treasure deeply—and his story deserves to be told, again and again.

>>>the writer is a media consultant

The post Joe Baidoe-Ansah – My big brother, from freedom fighter and award-winning journalist to politician appeared first on The Business & Financial Times.

Read Full Story