Youth in Ashaiman charged to be critical thinkers in the upcoming 2024 general election - NCCE

Under the USAID funded Political Accountability Project, the NCCE and the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) organised a town hall meeting for the youth of Ashaiman to foster responsible political participation and sensitise them on their role in governance.

The Greater Accra Regional Director, Mr. Fredrick Mawuli Agbenu sensitized participants on various topics, including voting rights, understanding political systems, the importance of staying informed about current affairs during elections. Special emphasis was placed on the importance of critical thinking, recognizing misinformation, and making decisions that reflect personal values and societal well-being.

Participants were also encouraged to verify the authenticity of every information they receive before sharing on social media. Awareness was created on the effects of vote buying during elections which could lead to the disruption of the peace. Interactive sessions allowed participants to ask questions, share their concerns, and discuss how to become more involved in community activities geared towards the upcoming general elections and the critical role they play in the decision-making process. The youth were charged to apply critical thinking skills and digital literacy to identify and counter false information. Mr. Agbenu further explained the difference between misinformation (unintentional falsehoods) and disinformation (deliberately misleading information) as well as the dangers of hate speech in polarizing communities and undermining Ghana’s democratic processes.

Participants were admonished to vote in the 2024 General Election; participate in political discourses and hold their leaders accountable. The event successfully ignited enthusiasm among the youth to take an active role in shaping their futures through responsible political participation.

Other Facilitators present at the meeting were: NCCE’s Commission Secretary, Ms. Lucille Hewlett Annan, the Ashaiman Municipal Director, Ms. Salvata M. Koku, and Mr. Bright Agbagba, the Senior Programmes Officer at IFES.