Oliver Barker-Vormawor, the leader of the Democracy Hub demonstration, accused the police of selectively presenting isolated incidents of violence during their protest to create a false narrative of widespread unrest.
After being granted bail of ¢20,000 on October 16, he spoke with TV3, alleging that police issued exaggerated statements about violence on the first day of the protest, despite it proceeding without incident.
Barker-Vormawor stated, “When we showed them videos of people playing football, they continued to push their narrative.”
He criticized the media portrayal of police clashes with protesters, asserting that it detracts from the core issues the protests address.
He explained that the police circulated two specific videos repeatedly to amplify their claims of violence while downplaying the actual events.
Arrested during a demonstration against illegal mining, he contended that their actions did not involve violence and that they merely demobilized a police vehicle without assaulting anyone.
He emphasized the need for accurate reporting and communication regarding police conduct and protester intentions, arguing that sensationalism can skew public perception.
