Let's be mindful in using social media - Mahama

efua

June 4, 2016 1:29 PM

He urged social media users to “check the facts, and let's not destroy the opportunities presented by social media.”

President John Mahama has appealed to Ghanaians to be exercise caution when using social media.

In a post on his Facebook page on Saturday, the President praised the numerous opportunities social media presents to users, including freedom of expression.

“I love the new wave of social media because of my love for freedom of expression. It allows us to get in touch with each other more easily, to receive and spread information, and co-ordinate among ourselves without having to rely on already existing organizations,” he said.

Last week, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) John Kudalor, announced that he was considering banning the use of social media during the November 7 polls as one of the measures to safeguard the peace within the country.

His announcement was widely criticized, as many considered it an infringement on human rights and a recipe for chaos.

President Mahama in his post acknowledged that “through social media, we all get a voice in our democratic conversation.”The President however cautioned that like any other type of freedom, persons who use social media to “create and spread falsehood” must desist from such practice.

“While I do love creativity, I don’t think this is the most useful way to be creative-false realities are a waste of time and energy.”

“Fortunately though, social media also allows some opportunity to separate the truth from the lie by giving us the chance to check the facts.”

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