Rising arrests in Ghana spark debate over free speech under Mahama government

Ghana is facing growing debate over freedom of expression after a noticeable increase in arrests linked to false information and offensive

Ghana is facing growing debate over freedom of expression after a noticeable increase in arrests linked to false information and offensive online speech. According to the Media Foundation for West Africa, authorities have made 14 such arrests within the past 16 months. The figure is almost twice the number recorded during the previous administration’s eight years in power.

The trend has raised concerns among politicians, journalists, and civil society groups who fear the country could be moving toward tighter control of public expression. Ghana has long been regarded as one of West Africa’s strongest democracies, known for its active media and competitive political environment. The recent arrests have therefore attracted significant public attention.
The issue has become even more sensitive because President John Mahama previously criticized the use of state institutions against critics while he was in opposition. In 2022, he warned that using government power to intimidate dissenting voices could create a dangerous precedent for democracy. Critics now argue that his administration is facing accusations similar to those it once condemned.
Government officials reject claims that the arrests represent an attack on free speech. Supporters of the ruling National Democratic Congress insist that law enforcement agencies are simply applying existing laws to deal with harmful content spreading across social media platforms. They argue that the digital age has made it easier for anonymous individuals to publish false information, insults, and threats without accountability.
One ruling party official accused the opposition of encouraging individuals to insult the president for political purposes. He pointed to the arrest of TikTok content creator Prince Ofori, widely known as Fante Comedy, who was detained last year over alleged threats against President Mahama. The official said the case quickly became politicized after Ofori later appeared at an opposition political rally.
Opposition leaders strongly disagree with the government’s position. Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the arrests. He argues that citizens are increasingly being targeted for comments that do not amount to genuine threats. According to him, the growing use of state power against individuals risks undermining the democratic gains Ghana has achieved over the years.
At the center of the controversy are legal provisions contained in Ghana’s Criminal Code and the Electronic Communications Act. Authorities maintain that these laws have existed for decades and are only being enforced more actively because of the rapid growth of online communication. Critics, however, argue that the problem lies in how the laws are being interpreted and applied.
Legal experts have also expressed concern. Some believe authorities are relying too heavily on provisions that can be used broadly against speech-related offenses. They warn that vague interpretations could create uncertainty about what citizens are allowed to say online.
Veteran journalist Ben Ephson believes clearer guidelines are needed to help both the public and media professionals understand the limits of free expression. He says authorities should better explain the reasons behind arrests so that citizens can distinguish between responsible journalism, personal rights, and unlawful conduct.
The debate extends beyond Ghana’s borders. Members of the Ghanaian diaspora have voiced concerns about reports of blogger arrests and what they see as a decline in political and press freedoms. Analysts warn that negative international perceptions could affect Ghana’s reputation as a democratic success story.
As discussions continue, many observers believe the government faces an important test. While authorities insist they are only enforcing existing laws, critics argue that democracy is best protected through tolerance, transparency, and strong institutions. The challenge for President Mahama’s administration will be balancing public order with the freedom of expression that has long been a cornerstone of Ghana’s democratic identity.