The Return of the Culture of Silence in Ghana
Ghana is slowly moving back towards a culture of silence, as the current administration led by President John Mahama has become increasingly intolerant of the public’s right to freedom of expression. In recent weeks, the arrest of social media activists for voicing their opinions on national issues has signaled a worrying trend that could lead to a return to the dark days of political intimidation and suppression.
This shift is particularly concerning when considering the historical context. In the early 1990s, journalists were often arrested without cause, and newspaper offices were targeted with human waste. If this pattern continues, it would mark a significant regression for a nation that once prided itself on democratic values and press freedom.
Arresting Bloggers
The situation was further highlighted by the arrests of two bloggers associated with the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). These individuals, known online as “Fante Comedy” (Prince Ofori) and “Akosua Jollof” (Yayra Abiwu), were detained on April 12, 2025, following a viral TikTok video in which a contributor allegedly threatened to kill President John Mahama and behead First Lady Lordina Mahama before the end of 2025.
Despite Fante Comedy’s swift apology and retraction, the police still proceeded with his arrest. This incident is not isolated. The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has raised concerns about the increasing harassment of journalists by security agencies, urging the government to intervene and protect the independence of the press.
The Power of Social Media
Social media has become a vital platform for public discourse in Ghana. With the rise of digital technology, more people are engaging in national conversations, challenging traditional media gatekeepers. Citizen journalists and bloggers have gained recognition for reporting on critical issues such as human rights abuses and poor governance.
However, this empowerment comes with challenges. While social media allows for greater participation, it also raises ethical concerns. Unregulated sharing of harmful content, including fake news and hate speech, has become a growing problem. Some individuals use these platforms to incite violence, spread misinformation, and attack public figures.
Unregulated Publications and Ethical Concerns
The lack of regulation in online spaces has led to an increase in unethical behavior. Some citizen journalists and bloggers act as “attack dogs” or “cyber terrorists,” using their influence to harm reputations and spread false information. They often cite constitutional guarantees of free speech but ignore the responsibilities that come with such freedoms.
Notable figures like Kevin Taylor, Twene Jonas, Captain Smart, Afia Pokua, and Ohene David have been criticized for their aggressive and often inflammatory posts. These individuals have targeted influential figures, including religious leaders and former presidents, using threats and fake news to undermine their credibility.
Venomous Bloggers and Political Attacks
Kevin Taylor, in particular, has gained notoriety for his harsh rhetoric. He has threatened to burn the palaces of chiefs who do not align with his views and even made direct threats against political opponents. Similarly, Twene Jonas has made similar statements, suggesting that certain leaders should meet untimely ends if their party does not win elections.
Despite these extreme comments, some of these individuals remain protected by powerful political figures. For example, Taylor recently avoided legal consequences after an appeal court overturned a contempt case against him. His continued presence in a state facility highlights the complexities of balancing free speech with accountability.
Discretionary Powers and Democratic Concerns
The current administration under President Mahama has shown less tolerance for dissent compared to previous governments. Unlike the Akufo-Addo administration, which allowed the spread of fake news to foster free expression, the NDC government appears more inclined to suppress opposing voices. This shift has raised concerns about the potential emergence of a police state, which could threaten Ghana’s democratic foundations.
Victim of Fake News
Former President Nana Akufo-Addo has spoken out about the dangers of fake news, recalling how he endured numerous false narratives during his time in office. Despite these challenges, he never used executive power to silence critics. Instead, his government focused on countering misinformation through official channels.
Hate Speech and Ethical Responsibilities
In September 2024, a TV pundit named Afia Pokua faced criticism for launching unprovoked attacks on the Asantehene, King Osei Tutu II, using offensive language. Similar incidents involving other media personalities have sparked concerns about the role of hate speech in political discourse.
While the spread of fake news and hate speech is unacceptable, it is equally important for authorities to handle such cases with discretion. The government must ensure that its actions do not undermine democratic principles. At the same time, all media actors—traditional and digital—must take responsibility for verifying information before sharing it.
Conclusion
The balance between free expression and ethical responsibility remains a challenge in Ghana. As the country navigates these complex issues, it is crucial to uphold democratic values while ensuring that no one’s voice is silenced. The old adage “when in doubt, do not publish” serves as a reminder that with freedom comes the duty to act responsibly.
