Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama has stated that his years in politics have toughened him against personal attacks and insults. Speaking at a town hall meeting with Ghanaians in New York on Friday, September 25, 2026, Mr Mahama addressed concerns about the growing use of insults, vilification, and personal attacks on social media. He emphasized that his experience in public office, including his previous tenure and subsequent electoral defeat, had given him the resilience to withstand criticism.
Mr Mahama likened his ability to withstand insults to having a crocodile skin, saying that he does not mind being insulted. "As a leader, I don’t mind being insulted. I have been insulted, I was vilified, and I was voted out of office, so for me, this skin is a crocodile skin," he said. He stressed that his priority remains doing what he believes is in the interest of the country, despite the criticism that may come with his decisions.
The former President's comments also touched on the broader debate over how Ghana should deal with abusive and potentially harmful content on TikTok and other social media platforms. He questioned whether Ghana should allow anyone to insult others on social media without consequences. "I will do what is right. I don’t mind the insults, but all of us have to decide what we want to do with TikTok," he said.
Mr Mahama's remarks come as discussions continue over the appropriate balance between protecting freedom of expression and addressing abusive, threatening or harmful content on emerging digital platforms. The debate is ongoing, with some arguing that stricter regulations are needed to curb the spread of hate speech and others advocating for greater freedom of expression.
The former President's town hall meeting with Ghanaians in New York was an opportunity for him to engage with citizens and address their concerns. The event provided a platform for Ghanaians to ask questions and share their views on various issues, including the use of social media and its impact on society.
Mr Mahama's comments on social media and personal attacks have sparked a mixed reaction, with some supporting his stance and others criticizing it. Some have argued that his approach may not be effective in addressing the issue of online abuse, while others believe that it is a step in the right direction.
The debate on social media regulation is ongoing in Ghana, with the government considering various options to address the issue. The Ministry of Communications and other stakeholders are engaging with citizens and experts to find a solution that balances freedom of expression with the need to protect citizens from harm.
Key points
- Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama says his years in politics have given him resilience to withstand personal attacks and insults.
- Mr Mahama's comments have sparked a debate on social media regulation in Ghana.
- The government is considering various options to address the issue of online abuse.
