President Nana Akufo-Addo has firmly accused his political opponents of orchestrating a false narrative that blames him for the death of his late wife, Eleanor Akufo-Addo. In a compelling speech at the Ghana Report Summit, themed “Dealing with Misinformation and Disinformation in the Upcoming Election,” the President urged Ghanaians to reject fake news and focus on issue-based politics.

Accusations of Misinformation

President Akufo-Addo highlighted that these same political adversaries are behind the controversial ‘Agyapadie’ document, which some believe outlines a grand scheme for state capture during his administration. The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has consistently dismissed this document as fake. However, segments of the Ghanaian populace find it difficult to dismiss the document entirely, as several current events in the country appear to align with its contents.

Historical Context of Misinformation

Akufo-Addo recalled previous elections where he was the target of numerous baseless and malicious stories. During the 2008, 2012, and 2016 presidential elections, he faced false allegations ranging from drug trafficking to ethnic incitement. In 2016, opposition sympathizers alleged that he had killed his late wife. As the 2024 elections approach, these tactics have resurfaced with the spread of the ‘Agyapadie’ document.

The Dangers of Misinformation

The President stressed the severe consequences of misinformation on democratic stability. He noted that false information can skew public perception, create confusion, and undermine the credibility of the electoral process. In the digital age, social media platforms have become conduits for the rapid spread of misinformation, exacerbating societal divisions and potentially inciting violence.

Call to Action

President Akufo-Addo called for proactive measures to combat the spread of false information. He emphasized the need for the public to access accurate and reliable information to make informed decisions at the polls. By addressing these challenges head-on, Ghanaians can ensure a fair and peaceful election process.

Conclusion

As Ghana approaches the 2024 general elections, President Akufo-Addo’s call to reject fake news and focus on issues rather than personal attacks resonates strongly. By curbing misinformation and promoting accurate information, the integrity of the electoral process and the stability of democracy can be preserved.