Free Expression Under Pressure as Political Arrests Rise, Afenyo-Markin Claims
The Minority Leader in Parliament, Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has expressed concern over what he describes as growing threats to freedom of expression and democratic participation in Ghana, warning that the increasing use of arrests and interrogations in response to political commentary could undermine the country’s democratic credentials.
Speaking at the Ghana Journalists Association’s World Press Freedom Day 2026 Honours Night, Afenyo-Markin urged authorities to uphold constitutional freedoms and ensure that citizens, journalists and political actors can express their views without fear of intimidation.
According to him, recent developments suggest a worrying pattern in which individuals face arrest or questioning over comments made in the public domain, particularly those perceived to be critical of government.
The Minority Leader specifically referenced the application of 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), relating to offensive conduct and the publication of false news.
While acknowledging that the laws were enacted to protect public order and preserve the integrity of communication, he argued that their implementation in some cases appears to go beyond their intended purpose.
Afenyo-Markin cited the case of David Isandoh, an NPP constituency organiser in Agona West, who was reportedly picked up by security officials after making public comments about power outages. He also referred to another incident involving Baba Amando, who was questioned in connection with statements made on social media.
He contended that such incidents contribute to a climate in which political speech, particularly from opposition figures, attracts scrutiny from state institutions.
The Minority Leader warned that the trend could have a chilling effect on democratic participation by discouraging citizens from freely expressing their views on national issues.
“When arrests become the first response to political expression, democratic engagement suffers,” he stated.
He stressed that democratic governance thrives on open debate, criticism and the free exchange of ideas, adding that opposition voices must not fear sanctions for expressing political opinions.
Afenyo-Markin called on stakeholders, including the media, civil society organisations and state institutions, to remain vigilant in protecting the fundamental freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution.
He emphasized that safeguarding free expression is essential to maintaining public trust, strengthening accountability and preserving Ghana’s democratic gains.
