Accra: Lawyer Martin Kpebu has issued a stern warning to President John Mahama, cautioning that the continued arrests over political comments could significantly erode the goodwill currently enjoyed by his administration. The warning was made during a recent appearance on TV3's The Key Points, where Kpebu emphasized the need for the Mahama administration to reconsider its approach to handling free speech matters.
According to Ghana Web, Kpebu highlighted that the current government has recorded more arrests related to free speech in its first 18 months than the previous Nana Akufo-Addo administration did during its eight years in office. He stressed, "These things start small; before he realizes, all the goodwill is gone. Let the people talk."
Kpebu urged the Mahama administration to be cautious in its response to criticism and political commentary, suggesting that arrests should not be used as a tool to silence dissenting voices. He remarked, "You can't shut people down by arrests. I think the government should sit up."
Highlighting the importance of preserving public goodwill, Kpebu argued for the importance of allowing people to express themselves freely, even if their political comments are harsh or offensive. He proposed that the government explore alternatives to arrest, such as fines or public naming and shaming, when addressing offensive public commentary.