Bagbin raises concern over rising insults and hate speech in Ghana’s public discourse

Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin has raised alarm over the surge in insulting and hate speech in Ghana's public discourse, particularly on social media. During an emergency Parliament sitting on September 29, he emphasized that such behavior should trouble all citizens. Bagbin acknowledged that social media and digital platforms have expanded the country's democratic space, enabling citizens to participate more actively in national discussions, scrutinize officials, expose wrongdoings and demand accountability.

He highlighted that these platforms have provided unprecedented opportunities for citizens to voice their opinions, criticize public figures, and demand accountability, all of which are fundamental to Ghana's democracy and protected under the Constitution. Bagbin stressed that while freedom of speech and expression, including press freedom, are guaranteed, they should not be exercised in a manner that degrades public conversations.

He urged Ghanaians, especially Members of Parliament, to adopt a more respectful tone in their online interactions while preserving constitutional freedoms. Bagbin's concern is to preserve the benefits of increased public debate access without allowing abusive and threatening language to dominate Ghana's democratic discourse.