Friday, 04 July

Communications Minister assures press freedom as anti-misinformation Bill heads to Parliament

General News
Sam Nartey George

The Minister for Communications, Digital Technology and Innovations, Samuel Nartey George, has assured the public that the forthcoming Anti-Misinformation and Disinformation Bill will uphold freedom of expression while equipping the government with tools to address the growing threat of digital falsehoods.

Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, the Minister emphasised that the draft legislation—expected to be laid before Parliament in its next session—is aimed at curbing the deliberate spread of false digital content, particularly on social media, without undermining Ghana’s democratic principles.

“This bill is not an attack on free speech. It is a strategic response to the rise in coordinated misinformation that threatens public safety, trust in institutions, and national unity,” Mr. George explained.

He noted that the law will establish a clear legal framework for statutory agencies to act against the malicious use of digital platforms while simultaneously promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour.

The bill is currently undergoing internal review and is expected to be submitted to Cabinet and Parliament, with a target passage date set for December 2025.

In a related development, the Minister also announced that Ghana will host the 2025 Global Entrepreneurship Festival in November as part of efforts to position the country as a leading hub for innovation and investment in Africa.

The high-profile event will attract over 10,000 participants from more than 70 countries, including venture capitalists, angel investors, tech entrepreneurs, and industry leaders.

It is expected to generate substantial economic and networking opportunities for Ghanaian startups and innovators.

 

Mr. George reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building a secure, open, and digitally empowered society where both innovation and accountability thrive.

Source: Classfmonline.com/Cecil Mensah