Examining the Role of Social Media in the Spread of Election-Related Misinformation: A Case of Ghana’s 2020 General Election

Abstract

This study examines the role of social media in the spread of election-related misinformation during Ghana’s 2020 General Election, focusing on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and Instagram. The study revealed that misinformation had a significant impact on voter perceptions and behaviours, often influencing voting decisions and eroding trust in the electoral process. Misinformation was found to spread rapidly through social media, amplified by engagement-driven algorithms, which favoured sensational content over accuracy. The findings also highlighted the ripple effect of misinformation, affecting not only individual voters but also their wider social circles, contributing to broader societal distrust. Despite efforts by social media platforms and fact-checking organizations to counter misinformation, participants perceived these initiatives as largely ineffective, emphasizing the need for more proactive strategies. The study recommends Recommendations from the study include strengthening collaboration between social media platforms and authorities, enhancing media literacy among the public, and improving real-time responses to false information. The study underscores the importance of developing comprehensive strategies to mitigate the effects of misinformation and safeguard the integrity of future elections. By providing insights into how misinformation spreads and influences electoral outcomes, this research contributes to the broader discourse on the role of social media in democratic processes.