Nat’l misinformation and disinformation bill set to be laid before Parliament

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has revealed that the long-anticipated National Misinformation and Disinformation Bill is ready to be presented before Parliament for review in its upcoming session.

Addressing the media on Thursday, July 3, he stated that the bill is a crucial step in safeguarding Ghana’s digital information ecosystem, particularly in an age where falsehoods and harmful online content threaten public trust, national security, and democratic engagement.

“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 said.

He explained that the draft legislation seeks to establish a clear legal framework that empowers statutory bodies to respond effectively to the deliberate creation and spread of false information, without infringing on citizens’ 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 added.

Sam George emphasised that the bill reflects the Ministry’s commitment to promoting accountable digital communication, fostering trustworthy public discourse, and advancing digital literacy. He assured the public that free expression would not be curtailed, but must be exercised responsibly.

“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 stressed.