On 27th March, 2024, the RTI Commission participated in a public forum organized by the Media Foundation for West Africa, focusing on Countering Mis/Disinformation and Propaganda Narratives in the 2024 Elections in Ghana. The event took place at the Accra International Conference Center and was attended by various stakeholders including the Minister for Information Designate, Hon. Fatimatu Abubakar, and representatives from the British High Commission to Ghana and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE).

During the forum, a presentation was delivered by Kwaku Krobea Asante, the Lead of Fact-Check Ghana, on the topic of Mis/Disinformation and Indecent Languages in the Context of the 2020 elections. The presentation shed light on the prevalence of false information and inappropriate language used during the electoral period, emphasizing the need to counteract such practices in future elections.

Following the presentation, a panel discussion was held, moderated by Alfred Ocansey from Media General. The panelists engaged in a constructive dialogue on various strategies to Counter Mis/Disinformation, Hate Speech, and Propaganda Narratives in the 2024 Elections in Ghana. It was a platform for diverse perspectives and recommendations from stakeholders, aiming to promote fair and credible electoral processes.

A representative of the RTI Commission, Michael Duodu-Sakyiama took the opportunity to encourage institutions to proactively disclose information to limit the spread of Mis/Disinformation and also informed participants that access to information is a right and hence they should make use of the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989) to request for information from Public Institutions instead of dwelling on speculative information.

The participation of the RTI Commission in this public forum highlights the Commission’s commitment to promoting transparency, accountability, and access to information. As the country prepares for the 2024 elections, it is crucial to address the challenges posed by mis/disinformation effectively.

This forum by Media Foundation for West Africa(MFWA) is commendable as it helps promote peace and stability in the Country.

Strengthening the nationwide implementation of the Right to Information (RTI) laws in Ghana, the Executive Secretary of the Right to Information Commission of Ghana, Yaw Sarpong Boateng Esq., met with the Director for Freedom of Information and Transparency of England, Mr. Warren Seddon, on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The meeting took place at the Information Commissioners office in England, facilitating an exchange of knowledge and experience in the field of information access and transparency.

The primary objective behind this visit was to foster a mutual learning environment, whereby both institutions could gain valuable insight into their respective legal frameworks. While Ghana has made significant strides in enacting RTI laws, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) in England has already implemented corresponding regulations on access to information. Thus, the RTI Commission of Ghana is keen to adapt and learn from the Information Commissioner’s office in England and explore innovative ways to fortify the Commission’s operations and serve the people of Ghana more effectively.

Today, we celebrate the strength, courage, and achievements of women everywhere. Let’s continue to break the bias, empower women, and press for progress towards gender equality. Together, we can create a world where every woman and girl can thrive!