National Peace Council Advocates for Responsible Information Sharing to Mitigate Electoral Misinformation and Disinformation
In an era where the integrity of democratic processes is increasingly challenged by the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, Dr. David Normanyo, Executive Secretary of the National Peace Council for the Volta Region, has called for heightened vigilance among stakeholders in Ghana’s political landscape.
Speaking at a recent NorvanReports and BudgIT Ghana forum, Dr. Normanyo characterized misinformation and disinformation as “weapons of choice” wielded by politicians and warmongers alike, akin to arms and ammunition in their potential to destabilize society.
Highlighting the urgent need for a cultural shift in how information is shared and consumed, Dr. Normanyo stressed the necessity of implementing new policies and fostering responsible attitudes in the digital realm.
He identified misinformation and disinformation as a significant risk to the electoral process, urging stakeholders to engage in responsible information-sharing practices.
“When individuals recognize the potential impact of their social media posts, they become more deliberate in their choices,” he stated, emphasizing that such mindfulness is crucial in mitigating the risks associated with misinformation.
The Peace Council’s strategy encompasses a multi-faceted approach that seeks to engage a diverse array of community stakeholders. Dr. Normanyo pointed out that local chiefs and religious leaders play critical roles as trusted intermediaries capable of dispelling rumors before they escalate.
Recent engagements with clergy in the Volta Region underscore the Peace Council’s commitment to fostering collaboration at the grassroots level. “These community influencers are pivotal in combating misinformation and disinformation and promoting a culture of accountability,” he remarked.
Dr. Normanyo further elaborated on the Peace Council’s mission to develop mechanisms that prevent and resolve conflicts arising from misinformation and disinformation. He underscored the importance of establishing strong community ties, stating that the council’s work extends beyond political parties to include local authorities and community leadership.
“In fostering responsible social media participation, we empower citizens to recognize that sharing misleading information can have dire consequences for societal cohesion,” he noted.
As Ghana approaches the December 7 polls, the emphasis on responsible communication becomes increasingly critical. The National Peace Council remains steadfast in its resolve to cultivate a digitally literate electorate that prioritizes accuracy and integrity in information dissemination.
Dr. Normanyo’s call to action resonates with the pressing need for vigilance and responsibility in the age of digital communication. The onus lies on every Ghanaian to contribute to a political environment where truth prevails over deception, safeguarding the nation’s democratic fabric.
