President John Dramani Mahama has assured journalists and civil society groups that two proposed laws — the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill, 2025 and the Misinformation and Disinformation Bill — are not intended to restrict media freedom, but to safeguard truth and protect citizens in Ghana’s growing digital space.
Speaking at the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Awards at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on Saturday, Mahama said his administration values open expression but must also address the misuse of digital platforms.
“These laws are not meant to restrict expression, but to safeguard citizens and uphold truth in the digital realm,” Mahama said. “The same digital tools that democratize information now also enable hate, defamation, impersonation, and cyberbullying.”
The President acknowledged concerns raised by the GJA and other rights advocates, pledging a transparent stakeholder engagement before the bills are passed.
“I recognize that the GJA and civil society have raised some legitimate concerns. Let me assure you that these concerns will be addressed transparently,” he said.
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfuor had earlier warned that parts of the Cybersecurity (Amendment) Bill could undermine press freedom if not carefully reviewed.
At a recent press briefing to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, Dwumfuor urged broad consultation.
“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.
“If what the amendment seeks to cure will worsen the cyber ecosystem, then we must tread cautiously.”
He added that rushing the legislative process could have “unintended consequences for media freedom and democratic accountability,” and encouraged Parliament to work with journalists, digital rights advocates, and technology experts to achieve a balanced outcome.
The two bills seek to tackle cybercrime, online impersonation, hate speech, and disinformation, aligning Ghana’s digital governance with global standards. But critics fear the measures could be used to silence dissent or limit investigative reporting.
Mahama, who is a longstanding member of the GJA, reaffirmed his commitment to media freedom and responsible journalism.
“Freedom must be balanced with responsibility,” he said. “When falsehood flourishes, democracy suffers; when sensationalism displaces substance, citizens lose trust.”
He also announced plans to reactivate the Media Development Fund to support journalist welfare, investigative reporting, digital literacy, and safety training. “This will ensure journalists can work confidently, competently, and securely,” Mahama said.
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