President Akufo-Addo speaking at the Ghana Summit in a groundbreaking move expressed deep concerns over the alarming trend of misinformation and disinformation ahead of the upcoming December 7, 2024, general elections.
He explained with no equivocation what it means to be misinformed and to be disinformed. adding that misinformation, which refers to false or inaccurate information spread unintentionally, and disinformation which involves a deliberate dissemination of false information to deceive, pose significant threats to Ghana’s democracy.
“False narratives can distort public perception. Undermine trust in our institutions and even incite violence. As we have seen in various parts of the world, the unchecked spread of misinformation and disinformation can have dire consequences for democratic stability. The digital age has transformed the way information is disseminated and consumed”.
President Akufo-Addo
President Akuffo Addo further highlighted the need for collective action to combat the spread of false information. He reiterated Ghana’s democratic journey, citing the country’s successful elections and peaceful transitions of power as a model for Africa and the world.
He acknowledged the challenges posed by misinformation and disinformation, particularly in the digital age, where false information can spread rapidly and undermine trust in institutions.
He shared intrigued personal experiences of being targeted by false information during past elections and emphasized the importance of verifying information before dissemination.
“….. I was a target of numerous false and malicious stories aimed at attacking my credibility and integrity. In 2008, baseless allegations of drug trafficking were spread along with numerous rumors about my health intended to cast doubt on my ability to serve as president. President Kuffour was also accused in 2008 of having sold all of Ghana’s gold reserves.
“Again, the 2020, 12 election saw false reports of my alleged arrest in London for drug possession and fabricated quotes designed to stir ethnic tensions. In 2016, it was alleged by sympathizers of the opposition that I have killed my late wife. Today, with a few months to the December 2024 elections, they are at it again”.
President Akufo-Addo
Measures to Curb Misinformation and Disinformation
To address these challenges, President Akuffo Addo mentioned several initiatives, including strengthening regulatory frameworks, collaborating with technology companies, public awareness campaigns, cautioning journalists, particularly social media, and supporting fact-checking organizations to ensure accurate and appropriate information dissemination.
“Journalists must be vigilant in verifying information before dissemination and media houses must prioritize fact checking, fact-checking, and correcting false reports.
“Social media, while revolutionizing communication, has also become a platform for misinformation and disinformation. While social media has democratized information sharing, it has also made it easier for false information to proliferate”
President Akufo-Addo
President Akuffo Addo further announced the development of a national action plan to combat misinformation and disinformation, which will outline strategic steps to defend democratic processes and promote an informed citizenry.
He added that “Civil society organizations and educational institutions have insightful contributions to make in promoting media literacy and critical thinking skills”
In an attempt to discourage misinformation and disinformation ahead of the upcoming elections, the President urged political parties and candidates to conduct themselves with integrity and honesty, rejecting misinformation and disinformation.
…As we move towards the 2024 general elections, let us reaffirm our commitment to a fair and transparent electoral process. Misinformation and disinformation are challenges that require collective action. By working together, government, media, civil society, political parties, and the public, we can create an environment where truth prevails and our democracy thrives”
President Akufo-Addo
Highlighting the fragile nature of information, he called on civil society organizations to continue their advocacy and work closely with the government and other stakeholders.
The public was also encouraged to be discerning and skeptical of information sources, verify information before sharing, and participate actively in the democratic process.
President Akuffo Addo maintained the need for collective action to curb misinformation and disinformation, ensuring that the upcoming 2024 elections reflect the true will of the people and in protecting Ghana’s status as a beacon of democracy and stability.
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