Dr. Paul Herzuah, Political & Media Communications Expert / UniMAC Lecturer
By Bright Philip Donkor
Dr. Paul Herzuah, a political and media communications expert and lecturer at the Faculty of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC), has emphasised that the implications of language in a politically charged atmosphere must be carefully considered. He, has, therefore, urged voters, political parties and the general public to exercise restraint in their choice of words, underscoring the need to prioritize peace and national unity.
He made the call during a public forum organized by the Directorate of Research Innovation and Development at UniMAC via Zoom. Dr. Herzuah cautioned against the use of language that could ignite tensions. “Words are powerful tools that can either unite or divide. As we approach December 7, Ghanaians must be mindful of the language we use, especially in political discourse, to ensure it does not inflame passions or create unnecessary conflicts,” he said.
He further cited acrimonious engagements among state powers, the bastardization of democratic institutions, and the proliferation of divisive rhetoric. Dr. Herzuah outlined how these factors, alongside media partisanship and the spread of disinformation, were eroding the foundations of democratic systems.
Tension
According to Dr. Herzuah, the rising tension among the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government in many democracies, especially in Ghana, had created an environment of hostility rather than collaboration. “Acrimonious engagements among the powers undermine the very principle of checks and balances, which is crucial for safeguarding democracy,” he remarked.
He also criticized the increasing trend of undermining democratic institutions through public disdain and mischaracterization, warning that such actions weaken public trust. “The bastardization of democratic institutions diminishes their credibility and makes them susceptible to manipulation and disobedience,” he stated.
Dr. Herzuah further pointed to the growing use of incendiary political language by political figures, media professionals and the public as a major concern. He explained that this combustible rhetoric fuels polarization and division, often inciting hostility and violence. “Democracy thrives on dialogue and compromise, not language that divides and incites hatred,” he added.
The media, which Dr. Herzuah described as the “fourth estate of the realm,” also came under scrutiny. He decried the increasing partisanship of media outlets, noting how some had abandoned objectivity in favour of advancing political agendas. “When media attacks become common and partisan media takes over the airwaves, the public is left without a trusted source of information,” he warned.
Dangers
Dr. Herzuah also highlighted the dangers posed by disinformation and misinformation, stressing how these deliberate distortions of facts undermine public decision-making and breed mistrust. “When citizens cannot distinguish between truth and lies, the very fabric of democracy is threatened,” he noted.
He further called on political leaders, media practitioners and citizens to uphold democratic values and ensure that their actions contribute to the strengthening of governance systems. He advocated for measures to promote responsible political discourse, unbiased journalism, and the proactive combating of false information.
“Democracy is not self-sustaining; it requires constant effort and vigilance to preserve. We must collectively address these threats to protect the democratic rights and freedoms that we hold dear.” He also warned of a weakening foundation for democratic governance worldwide. Drawing on the findings of the Global State of Democracy Report 2023 by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), Dr. Herzuah highlighted the alarming trends threatening democratic systems across numerous nations.
He emphasised that nearly half of the countries experiencing democratic backsliding are plagued by flawed elections, restricted freedoms, and weakened institutional checks and balances. He lamented that the pillars of democracy—elections, parliaments, and courts—are increasingly eroded in these states, posing serious risks to the integrity of democratic systems.
“The bedrocks of democracy are weakening across the globe. The report reveals widespread issues, including curtailed freedoms of expression and assembly, which are essential for public participation and accountability.”
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