Advocacy groups call for uninterrupted internet access ahead of December 7 polls

Felicia Antonio, Campaign Manager at Access Now, has urgently called upon President Nana Akufo-Addo and relevant authorities to publicly guarantee uninterrupted internet access before, during and after the upcoming December 7, polls.

Speaking on behalf of a coalition of advocacy organizations, Antonio emphasized the necessity of valid assurances regarding internet availability for all citizens as they prepare to vote on December 7, 2024.

“The internet plays an essential role in facilitating free expression, public discourse on candidates, and the critical work of journalists and human rights defenders,” Antonio stated. “An open internet is crucial for an inclusive, free, and fair election process.” She urged the government to adopt and enforce measures to support these vital rights.

The coalition, which includes the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), the Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation and Access Now held a press conference on November 26, 2024, highlighting the significance of unrestricted internet access amid heightened electoral activities.

With the general election approaching in just 11 days, the group warned of the potential dangers posed by misinformation and disinformation to the integrity of the electoral process.

Wisdom Donkor from the Africa Open Data and Internet Research Foundation reaffirmed the importance of maintaining Ghana’s reputation as a leader in internet freedom within a region where shutdowns are common.

“We must uphold our exemplary track record of conducting elections without disrupting internet services,” he stated.

The organizers urged the government to ensure this status quo, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to promoting internet freedom as a member of the Freedom Online Coalition.

Kwaku Asante Korbea, Senior Programme Officer at MFWA, emphasized the responsibility of telecommunications companies to avoid any actions that could lead to internet shutdowns.

He referenced the UN’s guidance on business and human rights, stressing the need for telecoms to mitigate rights violations.

“We must ensure that there are no disruptions to communication platforms during this critical time,” he insisted.

In concluding their statements, the coalition outlined their commitment to protecting digital freedoms leading up to the elections and reiterated the importance of public assurance from both government and telecom providers of uninterrupted internet access.

They stressed that these measures are crucial not only for the electoral process but also for maintaining trust within the public.

Muheeb Saeed, Program Manager for Freedom of Expression at MFWA, summarized the event with critical remarks on the need for accurate information as the elections approach.

“Timely, accurate, and trustworthy information is key,” he argued, noting that “accurate information ensures that voters are not manipulated by false narratives but are empowered to make informed decisions.”

Saeed warned of the consequences of misinformation, stating, “If allowed to prevail, misinformation and disinformation can erode trust and lead to skepticism about electoral outcomes.

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It is therefore critical that the authorities avoid the mistake of shutting down the internet under any public order pretext.”

Source:Joseph Kobla Wemakor

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