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Political economy of disinformation and misinformation electioneering uptake in Ghana’s 2024 general election

ISSN 2734-3324

CC BY

"Disinformation and misinformation have become pervasive in electoral processes, influencing voter behaviour, party strategies, and democratic governance. This paper examines the socio-political dynamics that influence the uptake of disinformation and misinformation during the 2024 election period in Ghana. A cross-sectional study design was adopted to collect data from eligible voters, political communicators, and social media influencers during the 2024 general election period. Using stratified random sampling, 600 respondents were surveyed across all 16 regions in Ghana. Data were analysed using a logistic regression model to examine the determinants of disinformation and misinformation electioneering in Ghana. The findings suggest that both structural and behavioural factors influence the political economy of disinformation and misinformation uptake. The results of the analysis revealed that socioeconomic status (education, income) serves as a protective factor, while partisan alignment and social media reliance amplify susceptibility. Urban environments and high political interest further increase the risk, consistent with theories of political economy of communication and agenda setting. Based on the findings, we conclude and recommend that there is a need to advance up the political ladder and introduce digital literacy programmes, enforce political communication regulations, and finally establish robust fact-checking mechanisms during electoral periods in Ghana’s Fourth Republic." (Abstract)