STRANEK-Africa Raises Alarm over Potential Internet Shutdown Ahead of Ghana’s Elections
STRANEK-Africa referenced the adverse effects of internet disruptions experienced in Ghana and other regions in 2023, emphasizing their economic and social toll.
The Strategic Thinkers Network-Africa (STRANEK-Africa) has voiced serious concerns regarding alleged government plans to disrupt internet services on election day. In a press release issued on November 25, 2024 and copied to GhanaNewsOnline, the organization described such actions as a significant threat to Ghana’s democracy, peace, and stability.
With only a few days until the elections, STRANEK-Africa fears that recent internet disruptions across the country might be a prelude to an intentional nationwide shutdown. The group highlighted the potential consequences, noting that such interruptions hinder communication, prevent the spread of critical information, and may embolden bad actors to act with impunity.
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Concerns Over Past Disruptions
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STRANEK-Africa referenced the adverse effects of internet disruptions experienced in Ghana and other regions in 2023, emphasizing their economic and social toll. Despite widespread public complaints about poor internet quality in recent months, authorities, including the National Communications Authority and the Ministry of Communications and Digitalization, have provided no satisfactory explanations.
A Call for Accountability and Adherence to Rights
The organization underscored the fundamental right of citizens to access information, as enshrined in Ghana’s Constitution under Article 21, which guarantees freedom of speech and media, including social media. They urged the government to abandon any plans for internet blackouts and to uphold these rights to protect the nation’s democratic integrity.
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“Government must disembark any oppressive move which will contribute to subverting the will of the good people of Ghana,” said Gideon Nii Tettey Tetteh, Executive Director of STRANEK-Africa.
STRANEK-Africa also warned that internet shutdowns, often justified under the guise of national security, have been misused globally, citing examples in countries like Uganda and Sudan. They called on the government to prioritize transparency and accountability during this critical period.
The press release concluded with a resolute appeal: “God must help us to resist oppressors’ rule with all our will and might forevermore.”
Source: Ghananewsonline.com.gh
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