‘Ensure uninterrupted internet access during election period’
By Christabel Oboshie ANNAN, Accra
THE Media Foundation for West Africa in partnership with US-based Access Now, and Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation, has called on government and agencies such as the Ministry of Communications and the National Communications Authority (NCA) to ensure uninterrupted internet access during the election period.
This call comes as Ghana has less than two weeks until the general elections.
Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, Programmes Officer at MFWA, Kwaku Krobea Asante, noted the critical role of digital connectivity in fostering transparency and trust in the electoral process.
He warned against any form of internet disruption, stating that such actions would exacerbate tensions and create an enabling environment for the spread of disinformation.
“Tampering with the network would only heighten tensions and provide fertile ground for disinformation,” he said.
His warning comes against the backdrop of growing concerns about the weaponization of misinformation and disinformation in the lead-up to the December elections.
According to him, restricting internet access during this period would not only impede the public’s ability to access credible information but also fuel suspicion and undermine trust in the electoral process.
“Keeping the internet active ensures that people can share opinions, watch live streams of electoral proceedings, and engage in real-time discussions about developments. This fosters transparency and involves everyone in the process,” he added.
The Programmes Officer, also appealed to key government agencies, including the Ministry of Communications and the National Communications Authority, to uphold their commitment to democratic principles by ensuring free and open internet access.
Kwaku Krobea Asante also urged other stakeholders such as civil society organizations, media owners, and network providers to advocate for and support uninterrupted connectivity.
He stressed that the spread of false information during elections has the potential to undermine the legitimacy of elected governments, incite political turmoil, and erode democratic structures.
Executive Director for African Open Data and Internet Research foundation, Wisdom Donkor, also raised concerns about the dual threats of misinformation and internet restrictions.
He highlighted the risks these issues pose to the integrity of the electoral process, calling for collective action to ensure a transparent and fair election.
“In the age of digital communication, the spread of misinformation and disinformation poses a significant threat to the integrity of our electoral process,” he noted.
He emphasized that such false narratives whether spread intentionally or unintentionally distort public understanding and erode trust in democratic systems.
Wisdom Donkor noted that an open and accessible internet is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability during elections.
“Internet shutdowns disrupt communication, halt access to critical services and news, and silence citizens’ voices at a time when their engagement is most crucial,” he explained.
He called on all stakeholders, including the government, Electoral Commission, political parties, Ministry of Information, media, civil society organizations, and international bodies to prioritize accurate information and ensure the free flow of communication during the elections. “Together, we can safeguard Ghana’s democracy, protect the rights of every citizen online, and ensure that the December 7 elections are conducted in an atmosphere of transparency, fairness, and integrity,” he said.
