The Inspector-General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has called on the public to support the police in combating the growing threat of misinformation and disinformation.
Speaking at a summit organized by the Ghana Report, Dr. Dampare emphasized that these modern-day challenges pose a significant risk to national security and require the collective effort of all stakeholders to address effectively.
He stated, “Disinformation and misinformation are national security threats, and we should see them in that perspective. We should walk out of this place changed as people seeking to make a difference from these challenges that threaten the security of our nation.”
Dr. Dampare expressed concern about the public’s contradictory stance when it comes to tackling this issue.
He highlighted the frustration law enforcement faces when they take action against offenders, only to be met with resistance from the very community that demands solutions.
“What do we want as a people? Do we want to be on the side of right or wrong? We have to make a decision. We need everybody to be part of the solution in the fight against disinformation and misinformation,” he said.
The IGP stressed the importance of public cooperation to effectively combat these threats.
In his address, Dr. Dampare also underscored the need for a fundamental shift in mindset among Ghanaians.
He lamented the pervasive inhumanity where individuals find joy in the misfortune of others.
“The time has come for us to have a mindset change,” he urged.
“We have become so inhumane to each other such that our happiness is derived from the pain of others. We are so happy when someone is in a bad situation, and we must yearn to change from that.” The IGP’s message was a powerful call to action for unity and empathy in the fight against misinformation and disinformation.
