Cyber activism and its implications for press freedom in Ghana’s fourth republic

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyse the implications of cyberactivism on press freedom in Ghana’s Fourth Republic. Using a qualitative research approach and archival design, a purposive sampling technique was employed to sample four cyber activists who have cyberactivism sites which focus on issues relating to Ghana. The study found out that cyberactivism takes the nature of online petitions; social networks; blogs; and micro-blogging. While cyberactivism promotes freedom of expression, the study revealed, it also has negative consequences such as threats to national security, intimidation and assassination of activists. The study further revealed that, political mobilization is made easier through the use of hashtags. Based on the findings, the study concludes that cyberactivism is a powerful tool that has redefined press freedom in the Fourth Republic of Ghana. The study recommends among others that there should be a balance of rights. Freedom of expression and press are essential human rights ideals and guaranteed under the 1992 Constitution. As such, the state has no business interfering in the actions of cyberactivists. However, albeit a constitutional requirement, given that it has negative consequences, the study proposes that this right ought to be used responsibly for purposes of safeguarding national security.