The Ghana Police Service has invited Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a presenter with Kumasi-based Wontumi FM, to assist with investigations into the alleged publication of false information about the upcoming December 7, 2024, general elections.
The invitation follows the circulation of a video in which the presenter is seen making inaccurate claims about the voting process. According to the video, Oheneba Nana Asiedu asserts that voting will take place on two separate days, with candidates numbered 1 to 7 on the ballot being voted for on December 7 and the remaining candidates on a later date.
Police Reaction
The Ghana Police Service has described the claims as “false and likely to disturb the public peace,” emphasizing the dangers of misinformation during an election period. A statement from the Police Service reiterated the need to uphold accuracy in public discourse, especially as the nation approaches a critical democratic exercise.
Oheneba Nana Asiedu has been summoned to report to the Ashanti Regional Police Command in Kumasi to provide clarification and assist with the investigation.
Caution Against Misinformation
The Police Service took the opportunity to caution the public, particularly media practitioners, to ensure that all information shared with the public is accurate and verified. In politically sensitive periods, the dissemination of false information has the potential to create confusion, disrupt public order, and undermine confidence in the electoral process.
The incident has reignited conversations around the need for responsible journalism and the role of media in safeguarding democracy. As the December 7 polls approach, stakeholders are urging heightened vigilance against the spread of fake news.
This development underscores the importance of media accountability and public cooperation to maintain peace and order during the election season.
Below is the Police full statement.
POLICE INVITE OHENEBA NANA ASIEDU, A RADIO AND TV PRESENTER IN CONNECTION WITH PUBLICATION OF FALSE NEWS
The Ghana Police Service has invited a Kumasi-based radio and television presenter, Oheneba Nana Asiedu to assist Police investigation in connection with the publication of false news.
The Police invitation is hinged on a video circulating on social media in which the suspect is sighted at the studios of Wontumi FM in Kumasi, urging the public to vote for the presidential candidates on separate dates during the upcoming general elections in December 2024, a statement which is false and likely to disturb the public peace.
The suspect is to report to the Ashanti Regional Police Command in Kumasi to assist with the investigation.
We urge the public, particularly media practitioners, to exercise utmost caution and responsibility, and refrain from publishing false news which is likely to disturb public peace before, during and after the upcoming general elections.
