As 11 African countries prepare for elections in 2026, the control of information infrastructure by governments presents notable challenges to open democratic practices. Recent elections in Ghana and Tanzania illustrate how state actions, from internet regulation to managing social media narratives, affect political competition and public discourse.
- Governments use information control to shape digital narratives around elections.
- Open information environments enable some self-correction despite misinformation.
- Closed or restricted digital spaces hinder democratic oversight and voter engagement.
What happened
Elections in Ghana (December 2024) and Tanzania (October 2025) showcased how governments influence electoral outcomes through management of information flows. In Ghana, social media became a battleground featuring disinformation campaigns from major political parties, with false images and artificial intelligence-generated endorsements circulating widely. While misinformation was pervasive, both political actors and independent fact-checkers actively contested the narratives, relying on an open digital environment to verify and correct claims.
Conversely, Tanzania employed similar verification tools and extensive community-based fact-checking efforts. However, governmental controls, including the suspension of influential platforms like Jamii Forums, disrupted the flow of information. These actions undermined the community’s ability to self-correct misinformation and shifted the balance of power toward authorities managing the information ecosystem.
Why it matters
Information control by governments during elections affects the democratic integrity and trustworthiness of the electoral process. While states have legitimate responsibilities to protect human rights and public interest, blurring lines between governance and political advantage compromises accountability. The shrinking space for open information flow can hinder citizen participation and the ability of stakeholders to challenge misinformation effectively.
The contrast between Ghana’s relatively open internet environment and Tanzania’s more restricted scenario demonstrates that open access to information—even amid disinformation—enables mechanisms of self-correction. This comparative insight highlights the crucial role of digital openness in preserving electoral fairness and empowering voters with reliable information.
What to watch next
With a dozen African nations scheduled to hold elections in 2026, observers should closely monitor how governments regulate digital platforms and manage information infrastructure. Key indicators will include the incidence of internet shutdowns, platform suspensions, and legislative measures affecting freedom of expression and media independence during election periods.
Furthermore, the effectiveness and resilience of fact-checking networks, community radio, and local verification communities will be critical to sustaining democratic dialogue. Stakeholders must advocate for legal frameworks and institutional reforms that balance government duties with protecting a dynamic, transparent information environment essential for credible elections.