Dr George Akuffo Dampare, Ghana’s Inspector-General of Police (IGP), has urged the public to recognize their crucial role in combating misinformation and disinformation.
He has described these as significant threats to national security and societal harmony, emphasizing the public’s power in this fight.
Speaking at a summit organized by Ghana Report, Dr Dampare emphasized the critical need for collective action from all stakeholders to address these modern-day challenges, which include the rapid spread of false information through social media and the increasing sophistication of fake news tactics.
“Misinformation and disinformation are not just misinformation issues but grave threats to national security. We must approach them with the utmost seriousness and unity,” remarked Dr Dampare, underlining the severe consequences of these threats.
He expressed concern over public resistance when law enforcement takes action against individuals spreading false information.
“It’s disheartening when those who call for action against misinformation then oppose law enforcement efforts,” he stated, urging a unified stance against such threats.
Dr Dampare underscored the necessity for a change in mindset, urging compassion and a shift away from deriving joy from others’ misfortunes.
He called for a collective effort to foster a more humane society and emphasized the importance of ethical responsibility in information sharing.
The summit provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss strategies for enhancing public awareness and combating the dissemination of false information, aiming to safeguard Ghana’s security and promote national cohesion.
