The current Mahama administration has arrested more individuals for free speech offenses in its first 18 months than the previous Akufo-Addo government did in eight years. Private legal practitioner Martin Kpebu made this assertion, criticizing the government's approach to public commentary. He described the situation as a poor record for President John Dramani Mahama.
Mr. Kpebu urged the government to reconsider using arrests for offensive public commentary. He acknowledged that insulting public officials is inappropriate but argued that arrests are not the solution. This trend, he warned, could erode public goodwill towards the administration.
This development fits into a broader discussion about democratic freedoms in Ghana. Concerns about the rule of law and constitutional governance have been raised by various groups. The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) recently organized a "Democracy Under Attack" demonstration. They accused the government of political persecution and misusing state institutions, allegations the government denies.
Speaking on TV3’s The Key Points on August 8, Mr. Kpebu stated, "For one and a half years, this current government has arrested more people on matters of free speech than Akufo-Addo’s eight years." He emphasized that President Mahama should pay attention to this issue. Mr. Kpebu believes that allowing such arrests to continue could gradually diminish public trust.
He cited historical examples where prominent figures made strong criticisms without arrest. Former President Jerry John Rawlings, for instance, called former President John Agyekum Kufuor a "thief" while Kufuor was in office. Rawlings was not arrested for these comments. Similarly, Mr. Kpebu recalled that during Akufo-Addo’s tenure, Mahama called him and others "Akyem sakawa mafia" without facing arrest.
Mr. Kpebu argued that Ghana's democratic history shows many instances of politicians and public figures making harsh remarks without arrest. He mentioned that Nana Yaa Jantuah popularized calling Akufo-Addo "Nebuchadnezzar" without consequence. He stressed that citizens should be allowed to express themselves freely.
The legal practitioner suggested that the country needs a broader conversation about alternative responses to offensive public commentary. He proposed measures such as fines or public naming and shaming. These alternatives, he argued, would be more practical and desirable in a democracy than widespread arrests. Attempting to arrest everyone who makes insulting remarks is neither practical nor desirable.
This debate over free speech and the use of state institutions has intensified recently. The NPP's demonstration on August 6 highlighted their concerns. They claim threats to democratic accountability and selective justice are prevalent. The government has consistently rejected these allegations, maintaining its commitment to democratic principles.
The implications of this trend are significant for Ghana's democratic health. A perceived crackdown on free speech could deter public discourse and criticism. This could potentially affect the government's accountability and public engagement. Observers will closely watch how the administration addresses these concerns and balances free speech with maintaining public order.