Ghanaian lawyer and Convention People's Party member Kwame Jantuah has urged the Criminal Investigations Department to present evidence in court against Salomey Awiti Baffoe, a TikToker arrested in connection with videos of "Ghana Jollof". Jantuah made the call on Asaase Radio's The Forum on September 19, emphasizing that if the authorities have evidence, they should bring it to court. He stressed that the law should be allowed to take its course.
Baffoe's lawyer, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has rejected the allegations against his client, describing her arrest as based on lies. He stated that the defense would challenge the claims both in court and in the public domain. Jantuah, while not supporting the use of social media platforms to insult people, questioned the value of laws if they are not properly enforced.
Jantuah also criticized the broader culture of abusive political discourse in Ghana, citing politicians from the NDC, NPP, and CPP as those who engage in such conduct. He argued that some individuals seek power, publicity, and popularity through insults in the media. Jantuah's comments come as a backdrop to the ongoing debate about regulating social media and hate speech in Ghana.
The allegations against Baffoe include statements she allegedly made about an attempted coup and claims that President John Mahama was covering it up. Jantuah emphasized that the authorities should provide evidence to substantiate these claims, including evidence of her activities in the UK. He stressed that such evidence should be presented in court to establish the veracity of the allegations.
Jantuah's call for evidence comes as the case has garnered significant attention in Ghana. The TikToker's arrest has sparked a national conversation about the limits of free speech on social media and the role of the authorities in regulating online content. As the case unfolds, many are watching to see how the law will be applied.
Asaase Radio, the media outlet that hosted Jantuah's comments, is a prominent Ghanaian radio station with multiple affiliates across the country. The station's programs, including The Forum, provide a platform for public discourse and debate on key issues affecting Ghana. Jantuah's interview was part of a larger discussion on the implications of the Salomey Baffoe case.
The case against Salomey Baffoe raises important questions about the balance between free speech and regulation of online content in Ghana. As the authorities consider their next steps, Jantuah's call for evidence serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and ensuring that any actions taken are grounded in evidence.
Key points
- Lawyer Kwame Jantuah urges CID to present evidence against TikToker Salomey Awiti Baffoe.
- Baffoe's lawyer rejects allegations, describing arrest as based on lies.
- Case sparks national conversation about free speech on social media and regulation of online content.
