A concerned citizen, Joe Anim, has penned an open letter to the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, expressing both commendation and concern over the Minister’s handling of communication in the aftermath of a recent tragic accident.
The letter, widely circulated online, begins by acknowledging Dr. Amoakohene’s leadership and presence at the crash site, describing his energy and commitment as “admirable.” However, Anim raises alarm over what he calls a “deep concern” — the public sharing of graphic images and personal narratives from the crash scene, particularly images showing the remains of victims being transported in sacks.
“It was heartbreaking,” Anim writes, “to see images of our fallen heroes carried in sacks.” He suggests that instructions should have been given to avoid filming such distressing scenes and criticizes the Minister for posting more photos and commentary on the incident, noting that “this crosses a line.”
Anim’s letter emphasizes the emotional toll such images and details could have on the bereaved families and urges the Minister, as head of regional security, to exercise greater discretion in future public communications. “This wound is already deep. Let us not amplify it with graphic images and information that may cause further pain,” he pleads.
He concludes the letter by calling for more sensitivity and respect in public discourse surrounding the tragedy, while extending his sympathies to the affected families.
The letter has sparked conversation on social media, with many echoing Anim’s concerns and calling for a more compassionate approach to crisis communication from public officials.
Below is the letterÂ
OPEN LETTER TO ASHANTI REGIONAL MINISTER
By Joe Anim, Accra
Dear Dr Frank Amoakohene,
Let me begin by commending you. Ayeekoo to you and kafra to the members of your team and the community members you led to the crash site today. Your leadership, energy, and commitment have always been admirable.
That said, I must express a deep concern. It was heartbreaking to see images of our fallen heroes carried in sacks. I had hoped there would have been clear instruction not to film such moments. Sadly, I’ve observed more photos and posts from you, including narratives about this deeply painful event on your page.
With all due respect, I believe this crosses a line.
Some of these details, though perhaps well-intentioned, could compound the grief of the bereaved families. As head of regional security, your judgment in what to share publicly carries great weight. This wound is already deep. Let us not amplify it with graphic images and information that may cause further pain.
Kindly reconsider sharing such content moving forward. Warm regards and Yaako to the families.
Enock Akonnor is an experienced Ghanaian journalist, based in Kumasi and currently serves as the CEO and Managing Editor of www.leakyghana.com.
With a wealth of expertise built over many years in the media industry, he has earned a solid reputation as one of Ghana’s most sought-after journalists.
Contact:
đź“ž +233 541 921 562
✉️ enockakonnor2013@gmail.com
