As Ghana gears up for its 2024 general elections, a coalition of organizations, including the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) and US-based Access Now, has called on the government to ensure that the internet remains accessible and reliable during this critical period. The #KeepItOn coalition has written an open letter to President Nana Akufo-Addo, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the digital rights of Ghanaians. They argue that the internet and digital platforms are essential for maintaining democratic values, public discourse, and accountability, particularly in the context of elections. The coalition urges the government to commit publicly to ensuring that citizens have uninterrupted access to the internet, highlighting the precedent set by Ghana in conducting previous elections without internet disruptions since 1992.
The letter from the coalition expresses concern that many other countries have resorted to internet shutdowns during elections to manage misinformation, a tactic that often undermines democratic processes. They warn that such disruptions can hinder journalists’ ability to report effectively, obstruct election monitoring efforts, and violate citizens’ rights to express their views freely. Ghana’s admirable track record is contrasted with neighboring countries that have faced significant internet-related challenges during their elections, reinforcing the appeal to maintain a rights-respecting environment in Ghana as the elections approach.
The #KeepItOn coalition also agrees that it is crucial for telecommunications companies and internet service providers (ISPs) in Ghana to implement measures ensuring high-quality internet access during the elections. The coalition emphasizes that commitment to digital rights by the government and telecom companies is essential for a transparent and fair electoral process. Many stakeholders depend on an open internet, including journalists, human rights defenders, and election observers, to monitor and report on democratic developments effectively. Ensuring that these groups can operate freely is vital to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
Notably, the coalition acknowledges Ghana’s endorsement of the Contract for the Web and previous commitments made by the National Communications Authority (NCA) regarding unfettered internet access during the 2020 elections. However, they express concerns about the Electoral Commission’s recent discussions about regulating social media to counter misinformation, suggesting this could threaten free speech in Ghana. The coalition warns that heavy-handed tactics, such as internet shutdowns, have historically failed to mitigate misinformation and have been disproportionate responses that infringe upon fundamental rights.
In their letter, the coalition also highlights how internet shutdowns do not effectively combat misinformation and actually create information vacuums that allow unverified information and hate speech to proliferate. These shutdowns impede journalists’ ability to verify news, complicate monitoring of elections by political parties and civil society, and can negatively impact citizens’ livelihoods and economies. To bolster their case, the coalition references Ghana’s legal commitments to uphold freedom of expression and access to information, both domestically and internationally, underscoring that any disruptions would contravene Ghanaian and global human rights laws.
The coalition concludes with a set of recommendations for the government and telecommunications companies. They call for public assurances regarding open access to the internet during elections, restraint from unnecessary disruptions of telecommunications services, and proactive communication about any potential technical issues. The letter expresses the coalition’s willingness to support the Ghanaian government in ensuring that their elections are conducted in a manner that respects citizens’ rights to internet access and freedom of expression, thereby reinforcing democratic integrity in the nation.
