The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has called on the media to fact-check and debunk misinformation as the country approaches the 2024 general elections.
The Association emphasized the crucial role of the media in shaping public opinion, holding leaders accountable, and ensuring transparency in governance, urging intentional distribution of information to support democratic governance and peaceful elections.
These remarks were made by Albert Kwabena Dwumfour, President of the Ghana Journalists Association, at the 28th GJA Award Committee inauguration event in Accra.
Dwumfour highlighted the media’s power to influence voter behavior and stressed the responsibility that comes with it.
He emphasized the importance of balanced and impartial reporting, avoiding sensationalism and bias, and focusing on issue-based reporting rather than personality-driven coverage.
He also called for giving voice to diverse perspectives, including marginalized communities, and fact-checking to debunk misinformation.
In an era where fake news, polarizing narratives, and disinformation spread rapidly, Dwumfour urged the media to remain vigilant and fact-check all information they receive.
He asserted that this is essential for the media to fulfill its constitutionally mandated role as the fourth estate of the realm.
