Ghana's Minister for Information Fatimatu Abubakar has criticised CNN International correspondent Larry Madowo regarding his report on the recent anti-illegal mining demonstrations in Accra, which has led to the arrest and detention of over 50 protesters.

The protests, organised by the Democracy Hub, occurred between September 21 and 23.

Mr Madowo shared his observations on X, stating that Ghanaian authorities were detaining peaceful protesters opposing illegal mining activities.

“I’ll be watching Ghana’s president speak in New York this morning as police in Accra continue to detain peaceful protesters against illegal mining. People are rallying under #FreeTheCitizens after Ghanaian police violently broke up 3 days of #StopGalamseyNow protests,” Larry Madowo wrote on his X handle.

However, Minister Abubakar took issue with his portrayal of the events. In a post on her X account on September 26, 2024, she expressed her disappointment, arguing that Madowo's report lacked balance and failed to present a comprehensive view of the situation.

Dear @LarryMadowo

Please do well to check and report on both sides of a story when making publications that impact a country’s image.

Ghana has always supported citizens’ right to demonstrate peacefully. However, acts of vandalism, attacks on police and disruptions to public… https://t.co/PqHwQWfomS

— Fatimatu Abubakar (@Fatimatu_A) September 26, 2024

Madam Abubakar emphasised that the coverage focused primarily on one perspective regarding the arrests, labeling it as misleading and unfair.

She underscored the need for responsible journalism, especially when reporting on complex issues such as protests, where multiple viewpoints should be represented.

“Dear @LarryMadowo, Please do well to check and report on both sides of a story when making publications that impact a country’s image. Ghana has always supported citizens’ right to demonstrate peacefully."

“However, acts of vandalism, attacks on police, and disruptions to public order will always be contained by the Police in any jurisdiction,” Fatimatu Abubakar also posted.