Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation bill not an attack on free speech — Sam George
Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has sought to allay public concerns over the impending Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill, assuring that the legislation will protect freedom of expression while empowering the state to combat coordinated digital falsehoods.
Addressing a press briefing in Accra, Mr. George underscored that the bill, currently in draft form, is designed to target intentional misinformation and disinformation campaigns, particularly on social media, which pose a growing threat to public safety and national stability.
“This bill is not an attack on free speech. It is a strategic response to the rise in coordinated misinformation that threatens public safety, trust in institutions, and national unity,” he stated.
He clarified that the legislation will not suppress dissent or criticism but instead create a clear legal framework for dealing with harmful digital content that deliberately distorts the truth. The bill will also mandate relevant agencies to take action against individuals or groups using digital tools to mislead the public, while also promoting responsible online behaviour and digital literacy.
The proposed law is undergoing final internal reviews before being submitted to Cabinet. It is expected to be laid before Parliament in the next legislative session, with a target date for passage set for December 2025.
In a separate announcement, Mr. George revealed that Ghana will host the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival this November, a major milestone in the country’s push to become a leading innovation and investment destination in Africa.
The festival is expected to draw over 10,000 participants from more than 70 countries, including investors, venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders. It will serve as a launchpad for Ghanaian startups, creating vast opportunities for networking, partnerships, and funding.
Mr. George reaffirmed the government’s broader vision for a digitally inclusive and forward-thinking society.
He said the administration is determined to strike the right balance between openness and accountability: ensuring citizens can freely express themselves while safeguarding the digital space from abuse.
“This is about building a secure, open, and digitally empowered society where both innovation and accountability thrive,” he concluded.