NDC Relaunches “Setting the Records Straight” Campaign to Combat Misinformation

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has relaunched its “Setting the Records Straight” communication campaign to combat what it claims is widespread misinformation in Ghana’s political landscape. The initiative, announced at the party’s headquarters in Accra, aims to provide direct responses to what NDC officials describe as misleading narratives from their political rivals.

Deputy National Communications Officer Godwin Arko Gunn, who spearheaded the relaunch, emphasized that the campaign represents a strategic effort to counter what he characterized as deliberate misinformation from the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). According to Gunn, these alleged false narratives are designed to undermine public confidence in the current administration.

“What we’re witnessing is a calculated attempt to distort the achievements of the Mahama government through propaganda and misinformation,” Gunn stated during the announcement. “This campaign provides a structured platform to ensure Ghanaians receive accurate information about government policies and achievements.”

The relaunch comes at a critical time in Ghana’s political cycle, as the NDC government led by President John Mahama approaches its first year and a half in office. The party claims significant economic progress during this period, with Gunn highlighting several achievements including economic stabilization measures, improved investor confidence, and the implementation of what he described as “people-centered policies.”

Political communication has become increasingly contentious in Ghana’s polarized political environment, with both major parties—the NDC and NPP—frequently accusing each other of spreading misinformation. The proliferation of social media has further complicated the information landscape, allowing claims to spread rapidly with little verification.

Ghana’s economy has faced significant challenges in recent years, including high inflation, currency depreciation, and rising public debt. The Mahama administration has implemented various economic reforms aimed at addressing these issues, though assessments of their effectiveness vary widely along partisan lines.

Political analysts in Ghana note that the “Setting the Records Straight” initiative reflects broader concerns about information integrity in the country’s democracy. Dr. Emmanuel Akwetey, Executive Director of the Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), has previously emphasized the importance of fact-based political discourse.

“Democratic governance requires citizens to make informed choices based on accurate information,” Akwetey noted in a recent public forum. “When misinformation becomes prevalent, it undermines the very foundation of democratic decision-making.”

The NDC’s communication strategy appears to be part of a broader effort to reshape public perception ahead of future electoral contests. Ghana’s next general election is scheduled for December 2024, giving both major parties approximately two years to position themselves favorably with voters.

Gunn also emphasized that the campaign has the full support of NDC General Secretary Fiifi Fiavi Kwetey, indicating a coordinated party approach to strategic communication. The initiative will reportedly include regular press briefings, fact-checking services, and multimedia content designed to address specific claims made by opposition figures.

Political communication experts suggest that the effectiveness of such campaigns often depends on their ability to present information in accessible, compelling formats that resonate with average citizens. With Ghana’s literacy rate at approximately 79%, political messages must be crafted to reach audiences across different educational and socioeconomic backgrounds.

As both major parties continue to refine their communication strategies, Ghana’s media and civil society organizations face the challenging task of promoting factual, balanced reporting in an increasingly partisan environment.