Ghana: Armed Arrests Spark Debate Over Free Speech After Libel Law Repeal

Ghana: Concerns Rise Over Government's Response to Citizen Comments Following Criminal Libel Law Repeal Accra, Ghana – A recent discussion on Channel One TV's Breakfast Daily program has sparked debate over the government's handling of citizen comments in the wake of the Criminal Libel Law's repeal. The show featured Ibrahim Adjei, former Assistant Secretary in the Office of the Former President, who voiced sharp criticism of the government's use of armed National Security personnel to arrest citizens for expressing opinions. "Having so many armed men to arrest a person is unnecessary," Adjei stated, highlighting his concern over the potential chilling effect on freedom of speech. He emphasized that while certain sections of the law were removed, others remain, leaving room for potential abuses. Adjei's comments underscore a broader concern about the balance between maintaining order and safeguarding fundamental rights. The incident raises questions about the government's commitment to civil liberties and the need for transparent and accountable law enforcement. The use of armed forces in such situations, Adjei argued, is a disproportionate response and undermines the principles of a democratic society. The discussion concluded with a call for a more measured approach, emphasizing the importance of due process and the rule of law.