INEC Says X Account Linked to Chairman Amupitan Is ‘Clear Case of Digital Impersonation’

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the findings of a forensic investigation into an alleged X account linked to its chairman, Joash Amupitan. The investigation found that the account, @joashamupitan, and all posts attributed to him were “forensically unverifiable” and part of a “coordinated disinformation” campaign.

The controversy began on April 10 when screenshots circulated alleging Amupitan made a partisan comment, “Victory is sure.” INEC has referred the findings to law enforcement agencies for prosecution under the Cybercrimes Act.

Key Points:

The disputed account was renamed and set to private after screenshots went viral.
Forensic tests found no link between the account and Amupitan’s email or phone number.
A timestamp inconsistency proved the viral screenshot was fabricated.
The impersonation extended to Facebook and Instagram platforms.
Law enforcement has been asked to prosecute those responsible.

INEC has dismissed the allegations as a coordinated disinformation effort aimed at manipulating public perception.

Sources: The Nation