Free Speech vs ‘Criminal Behaviour’: Kwakye Ofosu weighs in on social media threats

Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has said the government will not restrict citizens from expressing their views but will take action against conduct that amounts to a criminal offence.

According to him, freedom of speech allows Ghanaians to criticise governments, make unpleasant comments and even insult political leaders, but such freedoms do not cover threats of violence or death.

Speaking on JoyNews’ PM Express on September 30, 2026, Kwakye Ofosu said the distinction between free speech and criminal conduct was important in understanding recent arrests linked to statements made on social media.

“What there are consequences for is criminal behaviour,” he said.

He cited the case involving an individual he referred to as “Index”, alleging that the person had gone live on social media and claimed that she and others would poison President John Mahama and his children.

He said the individual allegedly warned the President and his family to be cautious about consuming drinks or water at public events because they could be poisoned.

Workplace Exposed, Checked in With Three Children: Ghana Jollof reportedly traced to UK

Ofosu also alleged that the same individual made threats against the President and his wife following the August 6, 2025, helicopter disaster, including statements that they would be beheaded and put in a sack.

He said such statements went beyond political criticism and constituted conduct that could attract criminal liability under Ghanaian law.

“Threat of death is clearly indicated in our criminal code as a second-degree felony; it’s a crime,” Kwakye Ofosu said, adding that the offence carries a maximum sentence of 10 years upon conviction.

He further said the government was not interested in curtailing freedom of expression, stressing that he had personally been vocal throughout his years in active politics.

“I’ll be the last to endorse any efforts to stifle people’s rights to do the same thing that I do,” he indicated.

Kwakye Ofosu also defended the decision by law enforcement authorities to apprehend individuals suspected of facilitating or spreading such statements, saying the courts have determined the way forward in the cases.

“The courts have determined the way forward. That is how the law works in Ghana,” he added.

MRA/VPO

Inside Ghana’s Abandoned Engineering Powerhouse: What Went Wrong?