Sunyani: The National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) has intensified public education on constitutional rights and responsibilities as part of activities marking the 2026 Annual Constitution Week, with a call on citizens to uphold constitutional values in the digital space.
According to Ghana News Agency, the week-long celebration, scheduled from April 28 to May 4, is on the theme: 'Upholding Our Constitution in the Digital Age: Our Collective Responsibility.' Reverend Vincent Adzika, Ho Municipal Director of the NCCE, explained that Constitution Week is observed annually to commemorate Ghana's return to constitutional rule following the approval of the 1992 Constitution through a national referendum. He highlighted the celebration as a reminder of the country's democratic journey and the central role the Constitution plays in safeguarding peace, justice, and national development.
Rev Adzika described the 1992 Constitution as the foundation of Ghana's democracy, noting that it guarantees fundamental human rights and freedoms, while also outlining civic duties and responsibilities. He emphasized the Constitution's relevance in guiding national conduct and governance, especially in an era of rapid technological advancement that has transformed communication, access to information, and civic engagement. He further noted that digital platforms, while enhancing communication, have also introduced challenges such as misinformation, cybercrime, online abuse, identity theft, and digital fraud.
He warned of the misuse of digital platforms, particularly social media, which poses a growing threat to national cohesion and democratic stability. 'These emerging digital threats, if not properly managed, can undermine public trust, fuel division and threaten the peace and unity we have worked hard to build as a nation,' he said.
Mr Francis Tommy, Programme Officer at the Ho Municipal Directorate of the NCCE, stated that the 2026 Constitution Week celebration aims to educate citizens on their constitutional rights and responsibilities in the digital era. He expressed concern over the increasing use of social media and digital platforms to spread false information, hate speech, and other harmful content. Mr Tommy urged citizens to adopt responsible digital behavior by verifying information before sharing, avoiding the circulation of unverified content, and refraining from online conduct likely to inflame tensions or mislead the public.
He stressed that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, this right must be exercised within the limits of the law and with respect for the rights, dignity, and safety of others. 'The Constitution applies both online and offline. Citizens must understand that their actions in the digital space carry legal and social consequences,' he said.
Mr Tommy emphasized that protecting and defending the Constitution is a shared national responsibility and called on all Ghanaians to contribute to the preservation of democratic values through responsible civic conduct. The officials outlined a series of activities planned for the celebration, including radio and television discussions, social media sensitization campaigns, public education outreaches, school engagements, and collaborations with security agencies and other public institutions. They aim to deepen public understanding of constitutional governance and promote responsible citizenship, particularly among young people active in the digital space.
The NCCE expressed optimism that the intensified public education campaign would help build a more informed, vigilant, and responsible citizenry capable of contributing meaningfully to national peace, security, and development. The Commission urged all Ghanaians to uphold the principles of the Constitution at all times and play their part in strengthening democratic governance, both within their communities and online.