Politics

The looming shadow of fake news: A warning to the outgoing NPP

Ghana’s upcoming transition of power on January 7, 2025, marks not only a change in leadership but also a potential escalation in the insidious spread of fake news.

Whispers and mounting evidence suggest the outgoing New Patriotic Party (NPP) government might leverage disinformation as a key propaganda weapon against the incoming National Democratic Congress (NDC). While political maneuvering and counter-narratives are expected during such times, the deliberate and systematic dissemination of fake news crosses a critical line, carrying significant legal and ethical ramifications.

The temptation to manipulate public perception through fabricated stories, doctored images, and misleading narratives is understandable, especially for a party leaving office.

However, resorting to such tactics represents a dangerous undermining of democratic principles and a betrayal of the public trust.

The potential for destabilising the transition, eroding public confidence in institutions, and exacerbating existing societal divisions is immense. The very act of disseminating fake news, regardless of political motivation, risks igniting social unrest and hindering the peaceful transfer of power – a cornerstone of any stable democracy.

The gravity of the situation cannot be overstated. The potential consequences for the perpetrators of this disinformation campaign extend far beyond simple political fallout.

Churning out fake news is not a victimless crime; it is a criminal offence punishable under Ghanaian law. The legal framework governing the spread of misinformation is robust, and those found guilty face potential prosecution and substantial penalties. This isn’t mere political posturing; it’s a serious legal matter with tangible consequences.

The incoming NDC administration would be well within its rights, and indeed, obligated, to investigate and prosecute instances of deliberate disinformation campaigns aimed at undermining the legitimacy of their government or inciting public disorder.

The judiciary, as an independent arm of government, would play a crucial role in upholding the law and ensuring accountability. Allowing the perpetrators of fake news to operate without consequence would set a dangerous precedent, emboldening future actors to engage in similar activities.

Furthermore, the international community is increasingly aware of the destructive potential of fake news and disinformation. Ghana’s standing on the global stage could be negatively impacted if the outgoing government is perceived as having actively engaged in undermining the democratic process through such tactics.

Foreign investors and international partners value stability and transparency; a government perceived as tolerating or participating in widespread disinformation would likely face reputational damage and potential economic consequences.

The NPP needs to understand that the short-term political gains from deploying a fake news strategy are drastically outweighed by the long-term risks.

The damage to their own reputation, the potential legal ramifications, and the potential for social unrest are simply too high a price to pay. A responsible and mature political party would focus on presenting their achievements and policies through legitimate channels, allowing the electorate to make informed decisions, rather than resorting to underhanded tactics that ultimately erode public trust and destabilise the nation.

Instead of engaging in such divisive actions, the NPP should prioritise a peaceful and transparent transition of power. This would involve cooperating with the incoming government to ensure a smooth handover, fostering a sense of national unity, and respecting the democratic will of the people.

The legacy of any political party should be one of positive contribution to the nation, not one stained by the deliberate spread of falsehoods. The choice is clear: embrace responsible governance or face the consequences. The clock is ticking.

Anthony Obeng Afrane