George Sarpong, Executive Director of the Media Foundation, has warned that the growing prevalence of hate speech and misinformation poses a significant threat to democratic discourse and national unity.
Speaking at a three-day training workshop for journalists in Tamale on the theme “Hate Speech, Misinformation, and Disinformation,” Mr. Sarpong said that unchecked false narratives and divisive rhetoric are eroding public trust and weakening the foundations of democracy.
The workshop was organized by the ECOWAS Peace and Security Group (EPSG) in collaboration with the Ghana National Peace Council (NPC).
According to Mr. Sarpong, hate speech — often conveyed through inflammatory or discriminatory language — can incite violence and deepen societal divisions, while misinformation distorts the truth and misleads the public.
“Misinformation is not merely about spreading falsehoods; it is a calculated assault on factual integrity,” he stated. “It confuses the public, manipulates perception, and ultimately undermines informed decision-making.”
He urged journalists to uphold accuracy, empathy, and ethical reporting, emphasizing that the media plays a critical role in safeguarding democratic values and fostering peaceful coexistence.
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