Book promoting responsible political communication launched 

A 299-page book titled “Voices for the Ballot: Electoral Communications in Ghana” has been launched in Accra.

The book seeks to promote responsible political communication by encouraging political actors to focus on educating voters, promoting accountability and advancing national development rather than concentrating solely on winning political power.

The author, Dr Nana Sifa Twum, said the book was intended to contribute to national discussions on improving electoral communication, which he observed had largely been reduced to securing votes for political parties.

The book examines four communication theories, including the public sphere, media ownership and control, propaganda and the interaction of communication, while introducing a new concept known as the Communicative Alignment Theory.

Dr Twum said plans were underway to organise nationwide workshops and dialogues involving students, politicians, media practitioners and civil society organisations to promote effective electoral communication practices.

The Executive Secretary to the Speaker of Parliament, Prof. Damasus Tuurosong, who read a speech on behalf of the Speaker, Mr Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, said voters deserved clear explanations of how political parties intended to create jobs, improve education and healthcare, manage public finances and tackle corruption.

He also urged journalists to uphold professionalism by verifying information, scrutinising campaign promises and ensuring accuracy and fairness in their reportage, particularly during election periods.

For her part, the President of the Institute of Public Relations (IPR), Ghana, Ms Esther A. N. Cobbah, said communication professionals played a significant but sometimes overlooked role in ensuring credible electoral processes.

She explained that effective communication enabled political parties and candidates to understand voters’ concerns, explain their policies and encourage citizens to participate meaningfully in elections.

Ms Cobbah commended the author for contributing to knowledge in electoral communication and strengthening the voice of the IPR Ghana locally and internationally.

By Eugene Ampiaw & Nelly Quarcoopome 

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