Government says it has decided to refer the malicious allegation that President Nana Akufo-Addo is actively involved in illegal mining, peddled by media practitioner Godsbrain Smart, popularly called Captain Smart, to the National Media Commission (NMC) for review and adjudication.
The government has expressed concern over the statement, noting that it does not bode well for Ghana’s democracy, and also “impugns the character and integrity of the President, and the credibility and commitment of his fight against illegal and irresponsible mining.”
Reacting to the allegation, the government in a statement described the comment as false, malicious and without basis, saying “it is nothing but an act of unethical and irresponsible journalism.”
“Government is concerned about the spread of disinformation and misinformation, clothed under the pretext of journalistic discretion and free expression,” it said.
“The President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, has never been and is not involved in galamsey. The video is intended to court disaffection for government and undermine efforts to fight illegal mining in the country and government’s commitment to the fight against illegal mining is unwavering,” it noted.
On seeking legal action, the government said it is without prejudice to its right to seek further legal action against Mr Smart, Onua TV and Media General.
The government urged Media General, employers of Captain Smart, not to “compromise their standards for validating information, ethical practice, and avoiding conjecture in presentation of facts.”
About The Author
