Full text: If you insult me, I don't mind - Prez Mahama tells TikTokers
He gave the response on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly on September 25 in New York.
President John Mahama addressed concerns from TikTok users about regulating the platform during a speech on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 25. He acknowledged that TikTok is not unique to Ghana, as countries worldwide grapple with ensuring information integrity on the platform.
Mahama emphasized that Ghanaians have taken social media to a new level with insults, often hiding behind anonymity. As a leader, he stated that he does not mind being insulted, having faced such treatment during his political career. Mahama suggested that instead of arresting those who insult, stakeholders should come together to decide the platform's future.
He proposed a workshop involving the Ghana Journalists Association, Media Foundation for West Africa, and other stakeholders to determine whether the police should be involved in regulating TikTok. Mahama cautioned against arresting individuals for insults, as it could lead to an uncertain escalation of authority. He questioned whether Ghana's approach to free expression sets it apart from other nations that have embraced democracy.
Mahama also expressed concern over the numerous arrests of individuals for expressing themselves on TikTok, with some not even aware of the reasons behind their detention.
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