Kassena-Nankana Municipal Director Urges Ghanaians to Combat Fake News for Peaceful Elections

The Kassena-Nankana Municipal Director of the Upper East Region, Ms. Ajongbah Felicia, has urged Ghanaians to be vigilant against misinformation, disinformation, and fake news, warning that these can pose serious threats to peace and security in the upcoming general elections.

She called on all Ghanaians, especially media managers, editors, and journalists, to avoid providing platforms for individuals who might spread hate speech or provocative remarks. "Do not allow your platforms to be used to incite hatred or violence," she emphasized.

The call came during a stakeholder engagement forum held in Navrongo, supported by the European Union (EU). The forum brought together key actors from the municipality to discuss strategies for preventing electoral violence and conflict in the upcoming elections.

“The 2024 general election is pivotal for Ghana’s democratic development. Together, we can build Ghana, so let’s all get involved. It is crucial for all citizens to actively promote peace and work to prevent violence in our sub-region,” Ms. Ajongbah stated.

She urged religious and traditional leaders to use their platforms to preach peace and educate their followers on avoiding actions that could lead to electoral violence.

Ms. Ajongbah highlighted that, with EU funding, the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has identified four critical areas to focus on to mitigate electoral violence. These include addressing misinformation, disinformation, and fake news.

Another priority area, she noted, is combating vote-buying and voter inducement. She appealed to Ghanaians not to compromise their democratic principles for monetary gains.

Mr. Issahaku Abdul-Gafaru, the Municipal Director of the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), provided participants with information on their civic rights, including the importance of registering to vote and exercising their voting rights.

The Chairman of the Inter-Party Dialogue Committee, Rev. Fr. Robert Afayori, encouraged flagbearers of all political parties to educate their supporters to refrain from actions that could disrupt the peace in the country.

The forum brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including political party representatives, religious and traditional leaders, security agencies, and youth groups, all committed to promoting peace and preventing electoral violence in Ghana.