The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has urged the government and relevant state agencies to guarantee uninterrupted and secure internet connectivity throughout Ghana’s 2024 general elections. The call underscores the critical role of the internet in promoting press freedom, ensuring transparency, and facilitating a free and fair electoral process.
MFWA’s Appeal for Open Internet Access
The MFWA’s appeal was made during a press conference held in collaboration with Access Now, a U.S.-based advocacy group, and the Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation. The discussions centered on combatting misinformation, disinformation, and the risks of internet shutdowns during the electoral period.
Key Points Highlighted:
- Internet Access as a Democratic Tool:
Kwaku Krobea Asante, a Senior Programme Officer at MFWA, emphasized the importance of internet connectivity for disseminating accurate information and countering misinformation.“An open internet is essential for addressing information disorders and providing citizens with the accurate information they need during elections.”
- Lessons from Other African Countries:
The MFWA cited instances of internet shutdowns during elections in other African nations, even those with strong press freedom traditions. They stressed the need to prevent such occurrences in Ghana.“We’ve seen countries with stellar press freedom records experiencing internet disruptions during elections. Ghana must ensure this does not happen to protect our democratic process.”
Recommendations to the Government and Key Agencies
The MFWA urged the following actions from stakeholders:
- Commitment to Open Internet:
A clear assurance from the government and agencies, including the Ministries of Communications and Interior, the National Communications Authority (NCA), and security services, that the internet will remain operational before, during, and after the elections. - Protection of Social Media Platforms:
Ensure that social media platforms remain accessible, allowing citizens to engage freely and share election-related information. - Strengthened Measures Against Information Disorders:
Facilitate timely dissemination of accurate information to counter the spread of fake news, which often escalates during elections.
Importance of Internet Stability for Ghana’s Elections
The MFWA emphasized that a transparent and open internet infrastructure would bolster public confidence in the Electoral Commission (EC) and Ghana’s democratic institutions.
“A transparent electoral process depends on unrestricted internet access. This assures citizens of fairness and integrity during elections,” they concluded.
As Ghana approaches its general elections, stakeholders are encouraged to heed the MFWA’s call to safeguard press freedom, transparency, and the democratic process through uninterrupted internet services.
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