Sam George Unveils Anti-Fake News Bill
Communications Minister Says Bill Aims to Safeguard Ghana’s Digital Space Without Gagging Free Speech
Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has announced that the long-awaited National Misinformation and Disinformation Bill is now ready to be laid before Parliament during its next session.
Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday, July 3, Sam George described the bill as a critical legal tool to combat the deliberate spread of falsehoods in Ghana’s digital space — a growing threat to public trust, national security, and democratic processes.
“To protect the integrity of Ghana’s digital information space, the Ministry is making steady progress toward bringing the National Misinformation and Disinformation Bill before Parliament,” he confirmed.
■ Combating Digital Falsehoods with a Legal Shield
According to the minister, the bill proposes a balanced framework that empowers relevant state agencies to identify and respond to digital misinformation while preserving citizens' constitutional right to free speech.
“This legislation is designed to strengthen legal safeguards against the intentional spread of false or harmful digital content. It will provide enforcement clarity while upholding freedom of expression,” he explained.
■ Freedom of Speech Remains Intact
In an effort to allay public fears of censorship, Sam George assured Ghanaians that the bill will not suppress dissenting voices, but instead promote accountability in how information is shared online.
“We will not clamp down on freedom of expression, which will be respected. However, when your right to free expression ends, your duty not to misinform begins,” he asserted.
■ A Step Toward Responsible Digital Citizenship
The minister added that the bill is part of a broader agenda to promote media literacy, protect public discourse, and build resilience against fake news and online manipulation.
As Ghana’s digital economy continues to expand, the proposed bill is expected to spark national debate on the balance between free speech and digital responsibility, particularly ahead of the 2024 elections and beyond.
The Ministry is set to engage stakeholders and the public on the bill’s provisions once it is tabled in Parliament.
