Former National Democratic Congress (NDC) National Chairman and Policy Adviser at the Office of the Vice President, Dr. Samuel Ofosu Ampofo, has called for responsible political communication in Ghana, urging political parties and other stakeholders to prioritise democratic education, public understanding and national development over the pursuit of electoral victories.
He said electoral communication should serve as a strategic tool for strengthening democracy and preparing citizens to understand their rights, responsibilities and contributions to national development.
Dr. Ofosu Ampofo made the remarks at the launch of Voices for the Ballots: Electoral Communication in Ghana, a book authored by veteran journalist and communications strategist Nana Sifa Twum.
He commended the author for using his extensive professional experience in journalism, public relations, diplomacy and institutional communication to contribute to discussions on Ghana’s democratic development.
Highlighting Nana Sifa Twum’s professional journey, Dr. Ofosu Ampofo recalled his contributions to journalism and broadcasting, including his work with the Ghana Broadcasting Corporation and TV3, where he served as the network’s first regional correspondent and helped establish its regional operations in Kumasi.
He also acknowledged the author’s work with the Inter-Ministerial Coordinating Committee on Decentralisation, the National Pensions Regulatory Authority, the British High Commission in Ghana and the International Organization for Migration.
According to him, Nana Sifa Twum’s experience across these institutions had demonstrated the importance of strategic communication in improving public understanding, strengthening institutional performance and building stakeholder relationships.
He further praised the author’s academic achievements and contributions to professional writing, describing him as an experienced communications practitioner whose work cuts across journalism, public affairs, international relations and church leadership.
Dr. Ofosu Ampofo encouraged the public to patronise the book, expressing confidence that it would stimulate meaningful discussions about the relationship between communication and democratic governance.
Voices for the Ballots: Electoral Communication in Ghana examines political messaging, campaign strategies, traditional and digital media, voter education, misinformation, media fairness and the responsibilities of stakeholders in ensuring credible and peaceful elections.
The publication also explores how political parties, candidates, journalists, electoral institutions and grassroots communicators influence public opinion and voter behaviour.
The launch provided an opportunity to reflect on the need for more responsible political discourse and communication practices capable of strengthening public confidence in Ghana’s democratic institutions.
