Information Minister ‘Warns’ Media Over “Cook-a-Thon Embarrassment”

Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, has issued a stern reminder to the media to meticulously verify all information before publication, warning that failure to do so could lead to national chaos and embarrassment.

Her caution comes in the wake of a recent incident involving a Ghanaian chef who falsely claimed recognition by Guinness World Records for a cook-a-thon, an assertion that was widely reported by major media outlets without proper verification.

In an interview in Accra on Monday, Madam Abubakar described the false reporting as a national embarrassment that must not be repeated.

She emphasized the potential dangers of such inaccuracies, particularly if they were to occur within the political sphere, especially concerning election-related matters.

“The media has the responsibility to verify every information before publication…it’s dangerous to spread falsehood because it could lead us into chaos,” she stated.

Reflecting on the incident involving Chef Smith, who organized a press briefing to declare himself the record-holder for a cook-a-thon, the Minister highlighted the critical role of the media in ensuring the accuracy of information disseminated to the public.

She underscored the possible repercussions of spreading unverified information, which could create serious conflicts or chaos, especially in politically sensitive situations.

In a bid to decentralize government communication and keep citizens informed about governmental projects, Madam Abubakar announced that her Ministry would soon launch a series of regional town hall meetings and exhibitions across the country.

Scheduled to commence at the end of July, these events aim to enhance transparency and accountability regarding government initiatives.

The town hall meetings will feature regional and sector ministers, along with key government appointees, who will answer questions from journalists and community members about various government projects.

Topics will include infrastructure developments in roads, health, education, water, and sanitation, as well as other local issues of concern.

Madam Abubakar expressed confidence that these regional meetings and exhibitions would facilitate better communication between the government and the populace, allowing for direct feedback and fostering greater transparency regarding government projects.

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