WACCE Unveils Initiative to Combat Hate Speech Ahead of December Polls
The West Africa Centre for Counter-Extremism (WACCE) today officially launched a new project aimed at addressing issues of hate speech, misinformation, and inclusivity as Ghana prepares for its general elections in 2024.
The project, titled “Youth, Hate Speech, and Promoting Inclusion in an Election Year,” seeks to mitigate potential violence and promote peaceful elections through the engagement and education of key stakeholders.
Addressing a Press Conference in Tamale, WACCE’s Executive Director, Mutaru Mumuni Muqthar, highlighted the central role of the media—encompassing traditional, social, and non-traditional platforms—in shaping public opinion and behavior.
He emphasized that poorly regulated media platforms and a highly polarized political environment create fertile ground for fake news and disinformation, which could incite violence.
“The 2024 presidential elections will be historic, with both the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) fielding candidates from Northern Ghana for the first time. This region, known for its unresolved ethnic and chieftaincy conflicts, could see these existing tensions exploited during fierce political contests,” Muqthar stated.
“Ethnic and religious undertones in political campaigns are early warning signs that threaten peace and national cohesion,” he added.
The project, according to the Executive Director, will empower 270 participants, including political party communicators, editors, bloggers, journalists, and opinion leaders across the Northern Region, Upper East, and Savannah Regions.
Through a series of two-day capacity-building workshops in Tamale, Bolgatanga, and Bole, the initiative will educate participants on the dangers of fake news and hate speech and promote responsible reporting and inclusivity.
Muqthar indicated that the initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 16), focusing on peace, justice, and strong institutions. The project will advocate for civic education, democratic values, and media freedom while guarding against its abuse.
The Executive Director called for collective support from the media and civil society to ensure the project’s success and contribute to peaceful elections in 2024.
Credit : Iddrisu Kumbundoo
