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Fake News and Hate Speech Can Undermine Peaceful Elections - WACCE

• By Ebenezer Albidar Narh
• July 22, 2024
• 0

Mr. Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar, Executive Director of the West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE), has issued a warning that fake news, misinformation, and hate speech could jeopardize the peaceful conduct of the December 2024 elections.

During a media briefing to conclude WACCE’s project on Hate Speech, Misinformation, and Disinformation in Northern, Savannah, and Upper West regions of Ghana, Mr. Muqthar emphasized the growing threat posed by these issues, which are exacerbated by poorly regulated media platforms and a highly polarized political landscape.

He highlighted several alarming incidents, including an attack on a radio journalist at Dagbon FM in Tamale and an assault on panelists at UTV in Accra. These events, he warned, are indicative of a dangerous trend that could lead to widespread violence during the upcoming election campaign season.

To combat this, WACCE, with support from the Danish Government and WANEP, initiated a project to empower young people to address these problems and promote peaceful elections. The project included capacity-building workshops and a forum in Tamale, engaging 270 participants, including political communicators, journalists, and community leaders.

Mr. Muqthar urged political leaders and stakeholders to use factual and respectful language, and for media outlets to actively combat fake news and hate speech. This initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16) for Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.


Source: Amadu Kamil Sanah