News
Media urged to stop dramatising defilement cases
The convener of the Affirmative Action Law Coalition, Sheila Minkah-Premo Esq has urged the media to exercise greater sensitivity in reporting defilement cases, as dramatising coverage can traumatise victims, hinder justice and continue harmful stereotypes.
According to her, responsible reporting can create awareness without causing further harm. The media must strike a balance between informing the public and protect survivors.
She made this known at a two-day training workshop organised by The Affirmative Action Law Coalition in collaboration with the Abantu for Development and supported by Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES).
The workshop held in Accra brought together representatives from civil society organisations, media houses and governance institutions to deepen their understanding of the laws provision, enhance their advocacy capabilities and promote responsible public reporting in its progress.
“In recent reporting on a defilement case involving a minor, it is aired with dramatic music and blurred visuals of the victims. They sometimes disclosed the location and age of victim making it easy for community members to identify the child,” the convener of the Affirmative Action Law Coalition stressed.
She stated that when the media dramatises defilement cases, it shifts focus from justice to drama.
She further emphasised that the critical role of the media is public education and dispelling misconceptions about the AAA Law (Gender Act 2024 Act 1121).
She called on stakeholders, from policy makers to community leaders to actively contribute towards realising Ghana’s vision to equitable representation in leadership.
Mary Tobin Osei, a researcher, stated that effective advocacy depends on civic actors and the media must have a full understanding of the law.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
At least six people have been confirmed dead following a stampede at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra today, November 12, 2025, during an ongoing military recruitment exercise according to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF)
“The Ghana Armed Forces deeply regrets to inform the general public of a tragic stampede nrinr to the commencement of the 2025/2026 recruitment exercise today Wednesday 12 November 2025 at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, Accra,” GAF confirmed in a statement.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the stampede was triggered by an unexpected who breached security protocols and rushed into the gates ahead of scheduled screening surge of applicants hours.
“The unfortunate incident led to the death of 6 potential recruits and many others injured. The injured are currently receiving emergency medical care at the 37 Military Hospital. Ghana Armed Forces assures the general public that medical teams are working tirelessly to stabilise affected individuals,” the statement revealed.
Meanwhile, arrangements are being made to notify the families of the deceased.
The Ghana Armed Forces has extended its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes a swift recovery to those injured.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
The Ghana Armed Forces and the Ghana Police Service have launched simultaneous joint operations in parts of the Ashanti, Volta and Ahafo regions to arrest persons linked to recent attacks on anti-galamsey teams and other security officials.
The swoops, which began at dawn on Wednesday, November 12, are taking place in Dadwene and Anwona in the Ashanti Region, Ehi in the Volta Region, and Hwediem, Kenyase, Guaso and Marhani in the Ahafo Region.
According to a statement from the Ghana Armed Forces, the exercise is intelligence-led and targets individuals suspected of attacking members of the National Anti-Illegal Mining Operations Secretariat (NAIMOS), some police officers, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officials, and journalists.
The Armed Forces and Police warned that anyone who tries to obstruct security operations, especially anti-galamsey activities, will face the full force of the law.
They assured residents in the affected areas that enough security measures have been taken to protect innocent citizens and urged them to remain calm and continue their daily activities without fear.
The statement commended civil society groups, the media and members of the public for condemning the recent attacks on security personnel and encouraged continued cooperation in the fight against illegal mining.
By: Jacob Aggrey
