Accra, Ghana – November 26, 2024 – Afua Yirenkyiwa Appiah-Adu, a dual UK and Ghana-qualified lawyer and Managing Associate at Gyandoh, Asmah and Co., has cautioned the general public, particularly social media users, against the dissemination of false information ahead of the upcoming general elections on December 7, 2024. She made this important statement during her keynote address at a Public Conversation on the Laws Governing Social Media, held at the St. Margaret Mary Parish in Dansoman, Accra.
The event, which was part of the 20th Anniversary celebrations of Gyandoh Asmah and Co., provided a platform for critical discussions on issues such as freedom of speech, the spread of misinformation, cybercrimes, and the protection of the right to privacy in the digital age. Ms. Appiah-Adu emphasized the responsibility of all individuals, especially on social media, to exercise caution and ensure that information shared is accurate and factual to maintain peace and integrity in the electoral process.
“The upcoming elections are a defining moment for the nation, and the spread of false information can be damaging to our democracy. It is crucial that we all work towards a peaceful and transparent election by using social media as a tool for positive change and factual information,” said Ms. Appiah-Adu in her address.
The discussion, featured insightful contributions from various experts, including Adwoa Biritwum and Elliot Abra, both lawyers with Gyandoh Asmah and Co who spoke on the complexities of cybercrimes and the legal protections available to individuals in the digital space. “Let us be mindful of the power of our words and actions online. By upholding the principles of truth, respect, and accountability, we can contribute to a safer, more informed digital community”.
The program was hailed as a resounding success, with many participants, especially the youth, leaving inspired to use social media responsibly and for the greater good of society. The session fostered a robust and interactive exchange of ideas, allowing attendees to better understand their rights and responsibilities in the digital age.
In a Message from Kofi Asmah, Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Gyandoh, Asmah and Co. he indicated that as the country navigates the complexities of the digital age, it is crucial that the public strikes a balance between exercising our right to freedom of speech and ensuring that the information we share is accurate and responsible. The spread of misinformation can have far-reaching consequences, especially in times of national importance such as elections. Kofi Asmah also noted that Gyandoh, Asmah and Co., was committed to promoting legal literacy and awareness around the responsible use of social media.
“Cybercrimes are a growing concern, and protecting the right to privacy online is essential in safeguarding individual freedoms. We all have a shared responsibility to use digital platforms thoughtfully and with integrity”.
Together, we can ensure that our rights are protected while fostering a responsible and respectful online environment.
Gyandoh Asmah and Co. expressed its commitment to continuing to host educational programs that promote legal literacy and responsible use of digital platforms. The firm looks forward to partnering with more institutions to organize similar initiatives in the future.
About Gyandoh Asmah and Co.
Gyandoh Asmah and Co. is a full-service law firm dedicated to providing strategic legal counsel and partnering closely with clients to achieve their corporate and legal goals. With expertise in areas such as debt recovery, commercial litigation, property advisory, mergers and acquisitions, and regulatory compliance, the firm has been at the forefront of legal practice in Ghana for the past 20 years.
