The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA) has issued a plea to the people of Ghana, urging them to refrain from engaging in hate speech towards one another.
By doing so, the MFWA emphasizes that the sustainability of democracy in the country can be ensured.
During a Public Forum on 30 Years of Democracy, held under the theme “Media, Hate Speech, and Democratic Consolidation in Ghana,” Sulemana Braimah, the Executive Director of The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), emphasized the detrimental impact of hate speech.
He highlighted that hate speech has the potential to incite animosity among individuals and groups, as observed in various countries like Rwanda (1994), Kenya (2007-2008), Cote D’Ivoire (2010-2011), amongst others.
According to Sulemana Braimah, as Ghana commemorates 30 years of uninterrupted democracy and approaches the 2024 elections, it becomes crucial for Ghanaians to unite and comprehend the adverse consequences of hate speeches on the nation.
He further emphasized that a significant portion of hate comments are disseminated through social media platforms. Therefore, it is imperative for Ghanaians to refrain from using social media as a platform for spreading hate and instead, utilize it as a means to promote democracy and positive engagement.
Sulemana Braimah also provided advice to all media houses, journalists, and social media account holders, urging them to refrain from providing a platform for hate comments and to cease participating in such behavior on their pages.
