Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the 2024 running mate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has emphasised the need for greater responsibility in exercising freedom of expression. He cautioned that the way Ghanaians engage in public discourse is influencing the country’s democratic culture. According to Dr. Opoku Prempeh, commonly known as NAPO, democracy should not only ensure that citizens have the freedom to express their views but also promote responsible communication of those views.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, August 11, he said the words used in political and public discussions reflect the kind of society Ghanaians are collectively building. “Democracy requires freedom of expression, but it also requires responsibility of expression,” he stated.
NAPO urged Ghanaians to build a democratic culture where disagreements are settled through constructive debate rather than personal attacks or attempts to demean opponents. He argued that opposing views should be met with stronger ideas, while criticism should encourage reflection and contribute to efforts to address weaknesses in society.
“Our words reveal the society we are building. Let us build one in which ideas are answered with better ideas, criticism produces reflection, and disagreement does not cost us our dignity or our humanity,” he said.
Source: Isaac Appiah Kubi
