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The Documentary Podcast

The Fifth Floor: How to apologise to a king

Nov 23, 2024
Daniel Dadzie, a BBC Africa journalist from Ghana, discusses the intricate traditions of royal apologies and reveals why journalist Afia Pokua's critical remarks about the Ashanti King resulted in no pardon. Martin Yip, a BBC Chinese journalist, shares insights on the often turbulent relations between taxi drivers and passengers in Hong Kong, highlighting complaints about service and the ongoing efforts to improve the situation. The conversation also dives into the cultural significance of apologies across different languages and societies.
20:54

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Quick takeaways

  • In Ghana, royal apologies must follow strict cultural protocols that emphasize hierarchy and respect for elders, impacting public interactions.
  • The incident surrounding the journalist's apology highlights the tension between traditional authority and the modern demand for accountability from leaders.

Deep dives

Cultural Protocols in Ghanaian Apologies

In Ghana, apologies to royal figures must adhere to strict cultural protocols that reflect respect and tradition. A journalist's critical on-air remarks about the king of the Ashanti tribe prompted her to seek forgiveness in a formal setting. To apologize correctly, one must often go through intermediary channels, such as addressing a queen mother, rather than directly confronting a king. This adherence to protocol highlights the importance of hierarchy and respect for elders in Ghanaian society, which plays a crucial role in public interactions, especially with influential leaders.

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