The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has called on the government and all relevant state agencies to ensure that the internet remains open, secure, and accessible throughout Ghana’s upcoming election period. The appeal is rooted in the belief that an open internet is crucial for fostering transparency, promoting press freedom, and ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
This critical appeal was made during a press conference organized by MFWA in collaboration with U.S.-based Access Now and the Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation. The event, held in Ghana, focused on the growing concerns surrounding misinformation, disinformation, and the potential for internet disruptions in the lead-up to the 2024 elections. These issues have raised alarm, especially given the role of digital platforms in providing information and enabling civic participation during elections.
Speaking at the event, Kwaku Krobea Asante, a Senior Programme Officer at MFWA, underscored the importance of maintaining internet access during such a crucial time. He noted that an open and secure internet plays an indispensable role in addressing information disorders while providing citizens with accurate and timely updates. By ensuring that the internet remains operational, citizens can make informed decisions and actively participate in the democratic process.
“We are urging the leadership of the country, the president, the Ministries of Communications and The Interior, the National Communications Authority (NCA), security services, and all stakeholders involved to ensure that we keep the internet on throughout the electoral period—before, during, and after the election,” Mr. Asante said. His remarks highlighted the shared responsibility of various actors in safeguarding internet accessibility and preventing disruptions that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The call for action stems from concerns about recent trends in some African countries where governments have resorted to internet shutdowns during elections. These actions often curtail press freedom and suppress civic participation, casting doubt on the credibility of election outcomes. Mr. Asante pointed out that even nations with strong democratic traditions have witnessed such shutdowns, raising fears that similar occurrences could happen in Ghana.
“We have seen this happen in countries that are perceived to have better press freedom than Ghana, and even in countries with autocratic regimes. Internet shutdowns during elections have become a worrying trend, and this makes it necessary for us to protect what we have achieved and consolidate our democratic process,” he stated. This observation reflects the urgent need to prevent any actions that could reverse the progress Ghana has made in fostering press freedom and open governance.
The MFWA and its partners emphasized the potential risks posed by misinformation and disinformation during the election period. With the proliferation of social media and other digital platforms, false information can spread rapidly, influencing public opinion and potentially inciting unrest. Ensuring uninterrupted internet access is essential for countering these threats and enabling credible institutions to disseminate accurate information.
The appeal also addressed the role of social media platforms in facilitating open communication and public discourse during elections. Mr. Asante stressed that any interference with these platforms could hinder access to critical information and limit the ability of citizens to hold institutions accountable. “We are calling on the government to assure citizens that it is going to keep the internet on, and that social media platforms will not be tampered with. This assurance is necessary so that we can all have access to information and the Electoral Commission can be seen as transparent and fair,” he added.
Internet access is not just a tool for communication; it is also a symbol of Ghana’s commitment to democratic principles. The ability of citizens to access real-time updates, engage with political discourse, and report irregularities contributes significantly to the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. Any disruption to this access could undermine public trust in the system and raise questions about the credibility of the elections.
The press conference served as a platform to highlight the broader implications of internet shutdowns, which extend beyond the electoral process. Such actions can have a chilling effect on press freedom, economic activities, and the broader civic space. The MFWA’s call aligns with global efforts to promote internet freedom as a fundamental right, particularly during periods of heightened political activity.
As Ghana prepares for its 2024 elections, the stakes are high. The nation has long been regarded as a beacon of democracy in Africa, with a history of peaceful transitions of power and a commitment to upholding democratic values. However, maintaining this reputation requires vigilance and proactive measures to address emerging challenges, including those posed by the digital landscape.
The partnership between MFWA, Access Now, and the Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation underscores the collaborative approach needed to tackle these challenges. By bringing together local and international expertise, the organizations aim to ensure that Ghana’s elections are not only free and fair but also resilient to the threats posed by misinformation, disinformation, and internet disruptions.
In making their appeal, the MFWA and its partners have urged all stakeholders to recognize the critical role of the internet in the democratic process. They have called on the government to prioritize transparency and accountability by ensuring that no measures are taken to disrupt internet access or social media platforms. This commitment is essential for fostering trust among citizens and ensuring that Ghana’s electoral process remains a model for other nations.
The upcoming elections represent a significant milestone in Ghana’s democratic journey. As the nation prepares to head to the polls, the actions taken by the government and its agencies will send a powerful message about their dedication to democratic principles. By keeping the internet open and secure, Ghana can reinforce its position as a leader in promoting press freedom and democratic governance in the region.
The MFWA’s appeal is a timely reminder of the shared responsibility to protect the integrity of the electoral process. By ensuring uninterrupted internet access and addressing the challenges posed by digital misinformation, Ghana can continue to set an example for other nations to follow.
