Journal of Development Communication And Applied Theatre

;In a distressed economy, government spokespersons face significant challenges in managing the public image of the government. This study explores the difficulties encountered by spokespersons as they strive to communicate effectively amid economic instability, rising public dissatisfaction and heightened scrutiny from media and opposition groups. The rationale for this study lies in the critical role that communication plays in shaping public perception and the need to understand the pressures faced by spokespersons in maintaining government credibility. The main objective of this study is to examine the specific challenges government spokespersons encounter in managing public image during economic downturns and to propose strategies to enhance their effectiveness. The theoretical framework includes Crisis Communication Theory promulgated by Timothy Coombs, which explains how organisations communicate during crises and Image Restoration Theory by William L. Benoit which outlines strategies for repairing public perception. The study adopts a library research method, reviewing existing literature, case studies and reports on government communication practices in distressed economies. Key arguments highlight the tension between transparency and public relations in times of economic distress, the rising influence of social media in shaping public discourse and the limited resources available for communication in financially constrained environments. The findings suggest that spokespersons must strike a balance between addressing public concerns and maintaining a positive government image, often under tight budgets and increasing pressure. The conclusion emphasises the importance of strategic communication, transparency and adaptability for government spokespersons in managing public perception during economic crises. Recommendations include enhanced media training for spokespersons, the development of proactive communication strategies and the integration of social media monitoring tools to better respond to public sentiment in real-time.

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