Democracy cannot function if opposition fear punishment for expressing political views — Afenyo-Markin

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has raised concerns over what he describes as a growing pattern of unlawful arrests and interrogations linked to political expression, warning that such practices threaten free speech and democratic accountability.

Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association World Press Freedom Day 2026 Honours Night, he said there is increasing concern about the alleged use of state institutions to target critics and political opponents, particularly over public commentary.

He cited what he termed the “weaponisation” of provisions under Section 76 of the Electronic Communications Act, 2008 (Act 775), which deals with the publication or transmission of false information, as well as Sections 207 and 208 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960 (Act 29), which address offensive conduct and the publication of false news.

According to him, while these laws were intended to protect public order and safeguard the integrity of communication, their application in some instances has gone beyond their original purpose.

“These laws, enacted to preserve public order and protect the integrity of communication, are now being applied in ways that extend beyond their original intent, I dare submit,” he said.

He referenced cases involving individuals such as David Isandoh, an organiser of the NPP in the Agona West Constituency, who was reportedly picked up after allegedly stating that “Dumsor is back,” and Baba Amando, who he said was also detained over comments made on social media.

“These, among other cases, reflect a pattern in which political speech, particularly from opposition figures, attracts arrest, detention and interrogation,” he added.

Mr. Afenyo-Markin warned that such actions could create a chilling effect on democratic participation, stressing that when arrests become the first response to political expression, it weakens democratic engagement.

“Democracy cannot function if opposition fear punishment for expressing political views,” he said.