Penplusbyte urges legal frameworks to tackle misinformation and disinformation

Penplusbyte, a non-profit organization, has urged the government to review laws against misinformation. They want these laws to be more effective.

The organization also called for better implementation of the Right to Information Act (RTI) from 2019. This would ensure timely disclosures and help reduce misinformation.

Their appeal followed a study supported by the Open Government Partnership (OGP). The study found that current laws do not address modern trends effectively.

Key frameworks reviewed included several acts: the Criminal Offences Act (1960), the 1992 Constitution, the Electronic Communications Act (2008), the Cybersecurity Act (2020), and the RTI Act (2019).

Professor Abena Yeboah-Banin presented the study's findings at a conference in Accra. She noted that most existing laws were not designed to combat misinformation.

These laws have been repurposed for this new challenge. As a result, they lack relevance and effectiveness in today's context.

She pointed out that the Criminal Offences Act was enacted before social media emerged. This law is outdated for addressing current issues related to misinformation.

Prof. Yeboah-Banin highlighted concerns about vague terms like “fear and panic.” These terms can be misused to silence dissenting voices.

She called for clearer definitions to protect freedom of speech. Additionally, she recommended creating a non-partisan ombudsman for assessing misinformation cases before prosecution.

Prof. Yeboah-Banin urged the government to pursue a regional legal framework through the African Union. This would hold tech companies accountable for their role in spreading misinformation.

Madam Lydia Lamisi Akanvariba, Minister of State for Public Sector Reforms, affirmed government commitment against misinformation. She cited efforts made over recent years to provide vital information to Ghanaians.

These efforts include publishing budget data online and strengthening institutions like CHRAJ and EOCO.

“We must remain steadfast in our pursuit of governance reforms,” she said. “Every citizen has a right to know and participate in shaping our nation's future.”

Mr. Jerry Sam, Executive Director of Penplusbyte, advocated for media literacy alongside fact-checking efforts. He suggested civil penalties for spreading misinformation instead of criminal punishment to protect individual rights.