Samson Anyenini Condemns ‘Ugly Free Speech Abuse’, Says Jail Terms Aren’t the Answer

Legal practitioner and journalist Samson Lardi Anyenini has reiterated his long‑held stance against the growing abuse of free speech, stressing that while offensive conduct must be condemned, custodial sentences and criminal prosecutions are not the right remedy in most cases.

His comments follow a wave of arrests over political commentary, including the widely discussed case of TikToker Camilla Alhassan, who was handed a one‑year prison term for offensive conduct and publishing false news targeting President John Mahama.

Responding to the developments, Mr Anyenini urged Ghanaians to elevate public debate and focus on issues rather than personal attacks.

“As I have maintained over the years, this ugly subculture of free speech abuse must end. I don’t know why you can’t take on the issues rather than insult elders,” he said.

He emphasised that freedom of speech was secured to protect democracy, promote accountability, and champion truth—not to provide cover for insults or reckless behaviour.

“Freedom of speech was fought and won to safeguard democracy, to hold power accountable, and to champion truth, not to serve as a licence to malign citizens or act foolishly,” he stated.

Despite criticising abusive speech, the TV host insisted that criminal sanctions should not be the default response.

“However, my stance remains the same: custodial sentences and criminal prosecutions are not the remedy in most of the cases,” he said.

He cautioned against weaponising State power to punish offensive speech, pointing specifically to Section 208 of the Criminal and Other Offences Act and Section 76 of the Electronic Communications Act.

“Weapons of State power like Section 208 of the Criminal & Other Offenses Act and Section 76 of the Electronic Communications Act should not be deployed as criminal hammers against foolish or offensive speech,” he warned.

According to Mr Anyenini, more effective remedies lie in civil action, robust public discourse, and social disapproval.

“The solution lies in civil remedies, robust public discourse and social media opprobrium,” he stressed.