President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has called on Ghanaian journalists to refrain from spreading misinformation that could undermine the integrity of the country’s electoral process.
Addressing the audience at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards and 75th anniversary celebration in Accra on September 28, 2024, the President emphasised the importance of responsible journalism in maintaining a fair and transparent electoral system as the country approaches the 2024 general elections.
In his speech, President Akufo-Addo underlined the pivotal role journalists play in shaping the political landscape by providing accurate information to voters. He encouraged the media to be gatekeepers of the truth, prioritising facts and ensuring that their reportage is fair and devoid of sensationalism. This, he explained, is essential for voters to make informed decisions during the elections.
“Every four years, Ghanaians go to the polls to choose their leaders, and in that process, the media plays an indispensable role. It’s through your work that citizens are informed about the policies of political parties, the integrity of candidates, and the issues that matter most to their lives,” he remarked.
Akufo-Addo acknowledged that the media has always been at the forefront of elections in Ghana, performing critical functions such as monitoring polls, reporting on potential irregularities, and amplifying the voices of the electorate. He credited the media’s diligence and integrity for Ghana’s peaceful transitions of power over the years.
However, he cautioned that the digital age has introduced new challenges for the media. Disinformation, misinformation, and fake news have become significant concerns, particularly during election periods. The President stressed that while technology has made information more accessible, it has also created new risks that could potentially distort the electoral process.
“In this digital age, we face many new challenges—disinformation, misinformation, fake news, and sensationalism—that can distort the electoral process. While technology has democratised information, it has also created new vulnerabilities,” Akufo-Addo stated.
He urged journalists to be vigilant and rise to the occasion by ensuring that their reporting is grounded in facts. He highlighted the importance of combating the spread of falsehoods, particularly in the fast-paced environment of social media, where information spreads rapidly.
“In the age of social media, where information travels faster than ever, journalists must rise to the occasion by being the gatekeepers of the truth, ensuring that facts prevail over falsehoods. As we prepare for another election cycle, I call on the media to continue its vital work, reporting with integrity, ensuring fairness in coverage, and providing voters with the accurate, timely, and comprehensive information they need to make informed decisions.”
The President’s message underscored the high stakes involved in the upcoming elections and the media’s crucial role in ensuring accurate and balanced reporting. He pointed out that the media’s work has never been more important in the context of Ghana’s democratic journey.
“The stakes are high, and your role has never been more crucial. I stand before you not only as the president of the Republic but as someone who has worked alongside the media on this journey to freedom and democracy,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He further reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to supporting a free and vibrant press in Ghana, recognising its essential role in strengthening democracy. As the 2024 elections draw near, he assured journalists that their independence and freedom would be upheld, encouraging them to continue their critical work with integrity and fairness.
“I remain deeply committed to ensuring that the media in Ghana remains free, vibrant, and independent. Your work is essential to the strength of our democracy, the integrity of our elections, and the progress of our nation.”
President Akufo-Addo’s remarks come at a crucial time as Ghana prepares for its general elections, where the media will once again be tasked with providing accurate and unbiased information to the public. The speech serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with the profession, particularly in an era where the rapid dissemination of information through digital platforms can have far-reaching consequences.
The President’s address at the GJA Media Awards highlighted the role that journalists have historically played in ensuring peaceful elections, and he urged them to uphold these values as the nation gears up for 2024. As gatekeepers of truth, the media’s work will be crucial in ensuring that the upcoming elections are free from the distortions caused by fake news and sensationalism.
Akufo-Addo’s commitment to a free press reflects his belief in the importance of an informed electorate. As Ghana looks ahead to its next electoral cycle, the President’s words serve as a call to action for journalists to continue their work with the highest level of integrity, ensuring that voters are equipped with the information they need to participate in the democratic process.
In conclusion, President Akufo-Addo’s speech at the GJA Media Awards underscores the vital role that journalists play in maintaining a strong democracy, especially during election periods. By prioritising factual reporting and combating the spread of misinformation, the media can help safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and contribute to the continued progress of the nation.
