Newly elected NPP National Youth Organiser Abanga Fuseini Yakubu has expressed concerns that the government is creating an environment where citizens are afraid to criticise those in power. He made these comments on JoyNews' PM Express programme on Tuesday, October 6. According to Mr Abanga, the government's approach has led to a restriction of free expression, warning that such actions could deepen public dissatisfaction with the administration.
Mr Abanga alleged that comments made on social media are attracting the attention of state security agencies, contributing to growing frustration among young people. He claimed that the government’s approach to critics amounts to a restriction of free expression. The NPP National Youth Organiser cited the arrest of a woman allegedly linked to a social media account as an example of what he described as the government’s intolerance of criticism.
The situation has reached a point where people can no longer freely express their views about the government without fear of repercussions, Mr Abanga stated. He said that even on social media, certain words, if used, could result in state security agencies taking action. “This government, whatever you do, they will come after you. Even on social media, there are certain words if you dare use them, tomorrow EOCO will come and pick you up,” he said.
Mr Abanga maintained that young people are particularly unhappy about what he sees as the shrinking space for dissent. He urged the government to reconsider its approach to criticism and allow citizens to express their views without fear of intimidation or arrest. According to him, the current situation is contributing to growing frustration among young people.
The NPP National Youth Organiser's comments come at a time when there are concerns about the government's tolerance for criticism. The issue has sparked a national debate, with many calling for the government to respect citizens' rights to free speech. Mr Abanga's concerns are shared by many who believe that the government's approach is stifling free expression.
Mr Abanga's statement is the latest in a series of criticisms against the government. Recently, there have been reports of increased state security attention on social media comments. The government has not officially responded to Mr Abanga's comments, but it is expected to address the issue in the coming days.
The issue of free speech has become a major concern in Ghana, with many calling for the government to respect citizens' rights. Mr Abanga's comments have sparked a national debate, with many urging the government to reconsider its approach to criticism.
Key points
- Abanga accuses Mahama government of restricting free speech.
- Government's approach to critics amounts to a restriction of free expression.
- Young people are particularly unhappy about the shrinking space for dissent.
