Elections 2024: Akufo-Addo sounds warning on Election misinformation, urges Journalists to prioritize truth

Accra, Ghana - President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has charged Ghanaian journalists to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accuracy in their reporting, particularly as the country approaches the 2024 general elections.

Speaking at the 28th Ghana Journalists Association's (GJA) Media Awards and 75th anniversary celebration in Accra on September 28, 2024, Akufo-Addo emphasized the critical role journalists play in shaping public opinion and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

The President acknowledged the media's vital role in Ghana's past elections, citing their diligence and integrity as key factors in the country's peaceful transitions of power.

He reiterated his commitment to a free and vibrant press, stressing that a safe and enabling environment for journalists is essential for democratic governance.

“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 stated.

“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.

“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.”

“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.”

“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,” he added.

Akufo-Addo's call to action comes at a pivotal moment in Ghana's electoral cycle. With the 2024 elections looming, responsible journalism is crucial in shaping public discourse.

The GJA Media Awards ceremony recognized outstanding journalists, including Edward Adeti, who took home the coveted Journalist of the Year award.

GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour urged politicians to establish proper channels for addressing grievances regarding media coverage, while Information Minister Fatimatu Abubakar called on journalists to maintain impartiality in their reporting.

Source: Lead News Online