By Admin1
Copyright ghanaiantimes
SOCIAL media has trans-formed communication, empowering citizens to share ideas, engage in debate, and hold leaders accountable. However, it has also created a space where hatred and violence can be incited with alarming ease.
Recent incidents of inflam-matory online rhetoric in Ghana are a reminder that digital plat-forms, while powerful tools for democracy, can also be misused to sow division and harm.
The anonymity and speed of social media allow malicious actors to spread dangerous con-tent far and wide, often without consequence. This trend poses a real threat to social harmony and national security.
Our Criminal Code provides clear provisions against incite-ment, threats, and other forms of hate speech.
The law is not silent, but en-forcement has often been slow, inconsistent, or limited by claims of “freedom of expression.”
Freedom of speech is a sacred right guaranteed by our Consti-tution, but it is not a license to harm, threaten, or destabilise. Democracy cannot thrive in an environment where voices of reason are drowned out by on-line bullies and hate merchants
The Ghanaian Times reiterates that the constitutional right to free speech is a cornerstone of democracy, but it is not absolute. It does not extend to those who deliberately endanger lives or destabilise the country through reckless posts and harmful propaganda.
The security agencies, the judiciary, and regulatory bodies such as the Cyber Security Authority must strengthen their oversight of online platforms.
More importantly, offenders must face swift legal conse-quences. The message must be clear: those who use the cover of social media to incite vio-lence will not go unpunished.
The Ghanaian Times is happy that President John Mahama has empowered the National Signal Bureau to crack down on hate speech mongers and bring them to book.
Authorities must, however, exercise caution to ensure that efforts to curb hate speech do not stifle legitimate criti-cism, dissent, or robust debate, elements that are essential to a healthy democracy.
In our view, the way for-ward requires a multifaceted approach. Law enforcement agencies and the Cyber Security Authority must enhance mon-itoring and enforcement while safeguarding civil liberties.
Social media companies should also cooperate with regulators to remove harmful content quickly.
Civil society organisations, educators, and faith-based institutions have a role to play in fostering digital literacy and promoting constructive engage-ment online.
Ghana’s hard-earned repu-tation as a stable democracy depends on striking this delicate balance.
We must hold accountable those who use the veil of social media to incite harm, but we must also defend the space for open and respectful dialogue.
A society that values both safety and freedom will remain strong in the face of these challenges
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