Accra: General Secretary of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Justin Frimpong Kodua, has defended the free speech record of the erstwhile administration of Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, arguing that it demonstrated notable tolerance for criticism and dissent. Speaking during a one-on-one interview on Metro TV on April 20, 2026, Kodua stressed the need for governments to distinguish between legitimate expressions of opinion and statements that could threaten national security or incite public panic.
According to Ghana Web, Kodua emphasized the importance of differentiating between expressions that could destabilize the country and those that are simply manifestations of people's beliefs. He noted that robust criticism, satire, and even caricatures of political leaders are common features of democratic systems globally, and Ghana should be no exception. Such expressions, he argued, should not be misconstrued as threats.
To illustrate his point, Kodua cited an instance where a social media user allegedly portrayed former President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, Majority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin, and Finance Minister Mohammed Amin Adam against an LGBTQ-themed background. Despite the potentially controversial nature of the post, Kodua said the NPP government chose not to take action, viewing it as part of the democratic process.
Kodua further contended that criticism over issues such as the government's failure to pass anti-LGBTQ+ legislation falls within the bounds of free expression and should be tolerated. He questioned how calling out a government for not fulfilling a promise could create fear and panic.
However, Kodua drew a distinction between criticism and what he described as dangerous allegations, such as claims that could suggest attempts to undermine the constitution or incite violence. He warned that failure to respect free expression could push Ghana toward a 'culture of silence,' referencing the country's past under criminal libel laws.
Kodua urged authorities to focus on addressing statements with genuine security implications, rather than targeting individuals expressing dissenting views. He maintained that protecting free speech remains essential to Ghana's democratic development.