President John Dramani Mahama has reassured journalists and civil society that the proposed Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill are not designed to stifle free speech or media independence but to uphold truth and protect citizens in Ghana’s rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards held at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Saturday, November 8, President Mahama addressed mounting concerns that the bills could be used to clamp down on dissent.
“These laws are not meant to restrict expression,” he explained, “but to safeguard citizens and uphold truth in the digital realm. The same digital tools that democratize information now also enable hate, defamation, impersonation, and cyberbullying.”
The President assured that the government will engage stakeholders transparently, including the GJA and civil society organizations, before the bills are passed into law.
“I recognize that the GJA and civil society have raised legitimate concerns,” he said. “Let me assure you that these concerns will be addressed transparently.”
Earlier, GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor had expressed reservations about sections of the Cybersecurity Amendment Bill, warning that certain clauses could undermine press freedom if not carefully reviewed.
At a press briefing marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Dwumfuoremphasized the need for broad consultation and public education before finalizing the legislation.
“We call for public engagement and education to fine-tune the bill to ensure that every sector directly impacted makes the needed input,” he said, adding that “if what the amendment seeks to cure will worsen the cyber ecosystem, then we must tread cautiously.”
The two bills aim to combat cybercrime, online impersonation, hate speech, and disinformation, aligning Ghana’s framework with global digital standards. However, critics caution that vague provisions could be weaponized against investigative journalists and political critics.
President Mahama, a longstanding member of the GJA, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, journalistic safety, and responsible communication.
“When falsehood flourishes, democracy suffers; when sensationalism displaces substance, citizens lose trust,” he noted.
He further announced plans to reactivate the Media Development Fund to strengthen journalistic capacity, improve welfare, and support digital literacy and safety training, measures he said will ensure that “journalists can work confidently, competently, and securely.”
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