Misinformation, deepfakes pose serious threat to Ghana’s democratic stability – NCCE

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has warned that misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and deepfakes pose a significant threat to Ghana's democratic stability and social cohesion. Speaking at a Press Soirée in Accra, NCCE Chairperson Ms Kathleen Addy highlighted how the rapid evolution of digital communication has expanded civic participation but simultaneously made it increasingly challenging for citizens to discern facts from falsehoods.

Ms Addy emphasized that the ability to produce realistic but fabricated images, videos and audio recordings means that people can no longer rely solely on visual and auditory evidence as proof. The event, which gathered media professionals, stakeholders, and civic education advocates, underscored the NCCE's importance in promoting civic consciousness, constitutional democracy, and national unity by working closely with the media.

Ms Addy stressed that media hold a critical role in raising awareness and ensuring citizens engage meaningfully with national issues. She urged journalists to maintain accuracy, fairness, independence, and professional ethics, especially in an era where information can reach millions instantly. Ms Addy reminded the audience that Ghana's 1992 Constitution protects media freedom and independence, and the repeal of criminal libel and seditious laws in 2001 has further bolstered democratic development.

While she acknowledged the positive impact of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and human rights violations, she cautioned that media freedom should not be equated with a lack of professional responsibility. She also addressed the financial challenges faced by media organizations, urging them to balance commercial sustainability with their democratic responsibilities.

NCCE Chairperson Ms Addy called upon the media to promote truth, tolerance, and responsible communication, emphasizing that their actions matter profoundly. Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, the Speaker of Parliament, echoed the importance of collaboration between the NCCE and the media to foster civic awareness, strengthen constitutional democracy, and promote national cohesion.

He urged sustained partnerships among various sectors to build an informed and responsible citizenry, emphasizing that democracy extends beyond elections and requires active citizen participation in decision-making. The EU's Deputy Ambassador to Ghana, Mr Jonas Claes, reiterated the European Union's commitment to supporting Ghana's democratic institutions.

He highlighted the EU's emphasis on accurate information and watchdog journalism, particularly during elections and other crucial national events, cautioning against the potential dangers of disinformation in undermining public trust and democratic discourse.