NCCE Condemns Wontumi FM Presenter for Spreading Election Misinformation

The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has strongly condemned the actions of Oheneba Nana Asiedu, a presenter at Kumasi-based Wontumi FM, following his arrest on Saturday, November 23, 2024.

He faces charges for publishing false news in violation of Section 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29).

In a widely shared video, Oheneba Nana Asiedu falsely claimed that due to the high number of presidential aspirants in this year’s election, voting would be conducted over two separate days. According to his assertion, voters would cast their ballots for candidates numbered 1 to 7 on December 7, while the remaining candidates would be voted for on another date.

In a press release signed by its chairperson, Kathleen Addy, the NCCE labeled these claims as “false, misleading, and a dangerous form of disinformation” aimed at confusing the public and undermining the electoral process.

Also Read: Wontumi's Presenter Oheneba Nana Asiedu Has Been Arrested

NCCE's Clarification

The NCCE emphasized that Ghana’s general elections will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, as scheduled. Voting for both presidential and parliamentary candidates will occur on the same day from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. All qualified presidential candidates will appear on a single ballot, and voters will cast their votes for their preferred candidate during this period.

The commission warned against the spread of disinformation, highlighting the harm it poses to democracy, and called on citizens to verify information before sharing it. It also commended the Ghana Police Service for its prompt action in arresting Oheneba Nana Asiedu and expressed confidence that the law would take its course to deter similar actions in the future.

NCCE’s Commitment to Civic Education

The NCCE assured the public of its continued efforts to educate citizens on civic responsibilities and voter information ahead of the December 7 polls. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Ghana’s democracy through intensified civic and voter education campaigns nationwide.

The public is urged to disregard the false information and remain confident in the integrity of the electoral process.