Penplusbytes Welcomes Misinformation Law Proposal, Calls for Inclusive and Rights-Based Approach
Penplusbytes has expressed cautious optimism following the announcement by the Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Hon. Samuel Nartey George, regarding plans to introduce legislation targeting misinformation and disinformation in Ghana.
In a statement, the civil society organization acknowledged the urgency of addressing false information in the digital space but emphasized that any new law must uphold democratic values, protect constitutional freedoms, and be informed by broad stakeholder engagement.
Drawing from its March 2025 report on Ghana’s legal framework for combating misinformation, Penplusbytes flagged concerns over vague legal definitions and outdated provisions in current laws like the Criminal Offences Act, Electronic Communications Act, and the Cybersecurity Act. The organization also warned against the misuse of existing laws to target journalists and activists.
Penplusbytes’ key recommendations include:
Clarifying ambiguous legal terms and ensuring proportionate penalties.
Establishing an independent, non-partisan ombudsman to oversee misinformation cases.
Aligning laws with the 1992 Constitution and international freedom of expression standards.
Advocating regional cooperation under the African Union to regulate digital platforms.
Enhancing the implementation of the Right to Information Act to proactively combat misinformation.
To promote inclusive dialogue, Penplusbytes will host a Multi-Stakeholder Conference on Combating Misinformation and Disinformation in Accra on April 11, 2025, supported by the Open Government Partnership. The event will convene policymakers, civil society, media, academia, legal experts, and tech industry players to explore legal reforms and foster collaboration.
Penplusbytes concluded by urging all stakeholders to seize this opportunity to build a democratic and transparent digital information ecosystem.
