Minister of Interior, Henry Quartey, has taken a decisive stand against the propagation of hate speech and fear-mongering online in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.
During his recent visit to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare on Monday, April 8, Henry Quartey underscored the importance of upholding public safety and order.
Highlighting the surge in inflammatory content circulating on social media platforms, Mr. Quartey reiterated the legal ramifications for individuals found culpable of such misconduct. He emphasized that those inciting violence or spreading panic will be subject to arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The minister urged citizens to exercise restraint in their statements and actions to preserve public tranquility. While upholding the principles of free speech and association, he stressed the importance of responsible communication to mitigate fear and unrest within the community.
“I know that we have passed a law in Parliament against false publications. Social media has become a space where everybody threatens everybody and says anything anyhow. As IGP, you have the powers with you. People sit in the comfort of their rooms and they threaten. Anybody who makes those remarks, we will go after you because that is what the law says.
“Your statements and your actions should not incite the public. It must not create fear and panic in the public. Free speech, free association, free movement, but we must be guided by our statements not to create fear and panic.”
Acknowledging the commendable efforts of the police service in maintaining the country’s security and peace, Mr. Quartey pledged to provide the necessary resources to bolster their capacity in ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
“This is an election year, and by the grace of God, we will ensure free, fair, transparent elections before, during, and after the 2024 elections. That we will not interfere in the elections. We will allow a free, fair, and transparent election. And also, just to let you know the government will continue to retool the Police Service.
“It means before the elections we shall do our best to give the Ghana Police Service more accoutrement to be able to discharge your duties professionally.”
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