The Eastern Regional Director of the Electoral Commission (EC), John Appiah Barfuor, has appealed to journalists to prioritize professionalism and accuracy in their election reporting in December to prevent the spread of fake news.
He lamented the increasing spread of disinformation, especially through social media, which threatens the credibility of the electoral process.
Speaking at a two-day capacity-building workshop organized by the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information in Somanya on Friday, September 13, 2024, Mr Appiah Barfuor emphasized the vital role of the media in promoting transparent and credible elections.
“The media educate the electorate, they publish campaign messages, act as watchdogs on the electoral process, and also communicate election results to the people,” he stated and stressed a need for close collaboration between the media and the EC.
Such cooperation, he said, is essential for delivering free, fair, and transparent elections.
He expressed concern over the rise in fake news, particularly in the print and electronic media, which he believes aims to undermine the EC’s credibility.
“The phenomenon of fake news must stop now,” he said and urged the media to ensure that all electoral concerns are directed to the EC for resolution to avoid fueling tensions.”
“We must all know that the Electoral Commission is the only election management body created by the 1992 Constitution to manage public elections and referenda in Ghana. Let us not publish issues that may have negative repercussions on our democracy,” he advised.
The workshop, under the theme, “Empowering journalists for credible elections: Enhancing reporting and fact-checking skills,” was aimed to equip journalists with both online and offline tools to help them verify information, whether they are in the office or on the field.
It covered various aspects of election reporting, from understanding electoral processes to the ethical considerations journalists must bear in mind when covering elections. In addition, the participants received thorough training on fact-checking techniques.
Mr Appiah Barfuor urged the journalists attending the workshop to maintain professionalism and uphold their responsibility to inform and educate the public accurately.
He underscored the significance of accurate reporting to foster peaceful elections, adding, “Let us all work hard to ensure peaceful, transparent, free, and fair 2024 elections.”
Barfuor expressed hope for continued collaboration between the EC and the media and urged all stakeholders to work towards safeguarding Ghana’s democratic process.