The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Dwumfuor, has emphasized that fact-checking is an essential, non-negotiable aspect of the 2024 general elections.
Dwumfuor’s comments came in response to the rising tide of disinformation and fake news spreading across social media, often fueled by political party supporters and users promoting biased agendas in favor of their parties.
Speaking at a fact-checking training event for journalists at the Spanish Embassy in Accra, Dwumfuor urged the media to be vigilant in verifying information before sharing it, particularly during the election season. He highlighted the growing threat of misinformation and the crucial need for responsible journalism.
“Fact-checking is absolutely crucial, especially during elections. We must verify all information before it’s shared,” Dwumfuor stated. “We must be wary of sources that have vested interests or biased agendas. As journalists, we must rely on reputable fact-checking organizations and independent media outlets to separate fact from fiction. Effective fact-checking is the only sure way to avoid falling victim to disinformation. It is non-negotiable as we approach the December 7 elections.”
Dwumfuor also touched on the issue of journalist safety during the election period, stressing the importance of ensuring a secure working environment for reporters before, during, and after the elections.
“As the leader of the umbrella body for journalists in Ghana, my primary concern is the safety and well-being of our members during this critical period,” he said. “We have a constitutional duty to help shape the narrative of this election. Our role is to inform the public so they can make well-informed decisions at the polls.”
The Spanish Ambassador to Ghana also expressed his country’s commitment to supporting free and fair elections in Ghana.
Albert Dwumfuor thanked the Spanish Embassy, Casa Africa, Maldita.ES, and Newtral for their support in organizing the fact-checking training. He believes the initiative will play a key role in strengthening Ghana’s democracy by ensuring that journalists are equipped to combat misinformation.
The two-day fact-checking training was organized by the GJA in partnership with the Spanish Embassy and Casa Africa, aimed at empowering Ghanaian journalists with the tools they need to verify and report accurate information during the elections.
