By Boakye Stephen, Kumasi, Ghana | Reporting for Ghanaian News, Canada
Attorney-General Dr Dominic Ayine has dismissed claims that the government is suppressing free speech, arguing that constitutional rights must be exercised within lawful limits.
He responded to concerns raised by the Minority, who argue that recent actions by the state amount to a clampdown on expression.
“I think that the Minority is exaggerating a lot with respect to the question of gagging of free speech,” he said.
Dr Ayine explained that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, those rights are not unlimited and may be restricted under specific conditions.
“There are limits. You can limit free speech if, for instance, it is something that can undermine public order, public morals, or for law enforcement reasons,” he said.
He stressed that government has a responsibility to intervene when speech poses risks to peace and stability.
“So if someone, for instance, is inciting hatred in our society, we do not expect that the Minority will say that we should sit down idly as a government and allow that person to go on,” he stated.
He referenced global historical events, including Rwanda, to illustrate how unchecked inflammatory speech can escalate into violence.
Dr Ayine reiterated that President Mahama remains committed to democratic freedoms and the protection of free expression.
“He understands the importance of free speech in a democratic society,” he said.
He also emphasized his personal commitment to constitutional rights but warned against misuse of speech in ways that threaten public safety.
He declined to comment in detail on an ongoing court matter.
Commentary | Boakye Stephen
This is a legal-philosophical argument about the limits of free speech. The tension remains unresolved: where does protection of order end and restriction of liberty begin?
