A member of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Team, Johnson Ayine, has criticised what he describes as growing intimidation and suppression of free speech under the current administration.
Speaking on Dreamz FM’s State of Our Nation programme, Ayine questioned the decision to remand a suspect in Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) custody pending the determination of a case, arguing that the action undermines constitutional freedoms.
“What kind of investigation do you want? Why should he do this to a human being?” Mr Ayine questioned.
According to him, political actors and citizens are increasingly being targeted over comments made in the public space, contrary to promises made by the government prior to assuming office.
“You promised that you were bringing second independence back because the Akufo-Addo administration was terrorising people,” he said. “The president himself said everybody should now go out there and speak freely.”
Mr Ayine argued that while irresponsible comments should not be encouraged, the state must not intervene in matters involving alleged defamation or personal grievances unless necessary.
“If the judge thinks that somebody has made certain statements against him, the judge has the right to take the person on. The state should not be intervening on behalf of certain individuals,” he stated.
He further warned against what he called a “recycling effect” in Ghanaian politics, where successive governments justify controversial actions by referencing previous administrations.
“No government will be there forever,” Ayine said. “One day, those that are justifying what is going on may be on the other side receiving the same treatment.”
Mr Ayine also cited concerns raised by media freedom advocates, insisting that attacks and intimidation against journalists continue to occur despite claims of improved press freedom rankings.
