President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged Ghanaian journalists to refrain from spreading misinformation that could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
Speaking at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association’s (GJA) Media Awards and 75th anniversary in Accra on September 28, he emphasised the importance of reporting with integrity, ensuring fairness in reportage, and providing voters with accurate information to make informed decisions in the 2024 general elections.
Akufo-Addo encouraged journalists to be gatekeepers of truth, prioritizing facts over falsehoods.
He acknowledged the media’s crucial role in past elections but cautioned against the dangers of fake news and sensationalism in the digital age, which can distort the electoral process.
“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.
“The responsibility of the media during elections cannot be overstated. You have been at the forefront, monitoring polls, reporting on potential irregularities, and ensuring that the voices of the electorates are heard. Peaceful transitions of power that we have been seeing in Ghana are no small parts due to the diligence and integrity of the media.
He emphasised, “But times are changing, 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.
“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.”
According to him, the stakes are high for the media to produce accurate and balanced reporting.
“The stakes are high and your role has never been more crucial. I stand before you not only as a president of the Republic but as someone who has worked alongside the media on this journey to freedom and democracy.”
President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed his commitment to a free and vibrant press, emphasising its crucial role in Ghana’s democracy, especially as the country gears up for the 2024 elections.
“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.”
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