NMC to deploy ‘Elections Watch’ Software to monitor fake news during December 7 polls
NMC to deploy ‘Elections Watch’ Software to monitor fake news during December 7 polls
The National Media Commission (NMC) is set to deploy a new software, dubbed: “Elections Watch” to monitor fake news during the December 7 elections.
The Software, among other things, undertake media monitoring, capture election incidence, record fake news and misinformation analysis.
READ ON: It is foolishness to preach Christ to ex lover—Rev Azigiza Jnr
At a Stakeholders meeting by the commission on the deployment of the new software held in Accra yesterday, the Executive Secretary of the NMC, Mr George Sarpong explained that the software served as an upgrade to the previous system in conducting elections in the country.
He said the software would enable electoral stakeholders not only to rely on the traditional media including Television and radio for credible information, but would involve all stakeholders to monitor the elections for a quick response when the need arise.
Touching on why the NMC is introducing the software, Mr Sarpong noted that some unscrupulous people tried to cause fear and panic during elections by circulating fake materials that create tension among the citizenry.
READ ALSO: International Gospel artist, Kwasi Mintah sets to release ‘Honhon Kronkron Police’
He said his outfit was working to ensure discipline and peace during and after elections, hence the introduction of the software to bring on board stakeholder institutions to help solve the issue of electoral violence and the dissemination of fake information.
Mr Sarpong indicated that once deployed, the Software would do two major things; for media monitoring and incidence monitoring, all aimed at contributing to credible elections and maintaining peace and order.
For the media, he said the Election Watch software would give journalists and the public opportunity to submit materials that involved occurrences during the elections to authenticate information in enhancing accurate reportage.
While the incidence monitoring would enable the security and the Electoral Commission (EC) to rely on the data to respond appropriately to violence and issues regarding mishandling of ballot.
“The system will enable the police, armed forces and the National Commission on Small Arms to quickly verify and track violence at polling stations. The Electoral Commission can rely on this to see areas where they need to respond to issues relating to delay of ballot papers, unavailability of ballot materials among others,” he added.
Explaining how the app works, Dr Ben Adu, the Chief Executive Officer of Soft Masters said the app uses location address, time and Global Positioning System (GPS) to automatically give description to the material which is photo or video.
He encouraged all electoral stakeholders to register once the software was deployed to enhance the country’s advancement in conducting elections.
“The App will also be available on google play store for the public to download,” Dr Adu added.
