Former Education Minister and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, popularly known as NAPO, has called on Ghanaians to promote respectful political discourse and responsible use of freedom of expression.
According to NAPO, democratic freedoms give citizens the right to criticise political leaders, parties, policies and ideas, but such freedoms should not be used to justify insults, personal attacks or attempts to humiliate political opponents.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, August 11, NAPO stressed that criticism and insults are fundamentally different, arguing that constructive criticism can improve public debate while personal attacks undermine meaningful political discussions.
He expressed concern over the growing trend in Ghanaian politics where individuals are attacked because of their intelligence, physical appearance, family background or other personal characteristics instead of engaging with the issues they raise.
NAPO warned that the increasing use of abusive language and personal attacks in Ghana’s political discourse could have a negative impact on young people who look to political leaders as role models for democratic participation.
He emphasised that respecting political leaders and opponents does not mean preventing criticism or avoiding difficult conversations.
“Respect has never meant silence. It has never meant that elders, leaders or public officials are beyond criticism,” NAPO stated.
The former minister said criticism is an unavoidable part of public service, but political actors and citizens must learn to challenge opposing views without treating people with different opinions as enemies.
According to him, Ghana’s democracy will become stronger when political disagreements are settled through robust arguments, constructive debate and policy discussions rather than insults and personal attacks.
NAPO further urged Ghanaians to exercise freedom of expression responsibly, stressing that citizens should be able to defend their political views while respecting people on the opposing side.
“Democracy requires freedom of expression, but it also requires responsibility of expression,” he added.
The comments come amid ongoing discussions about the quality of political communication, democratic accountability and responsible political leadership in Ghana. NAPO’s message highlights the need for political parties, public officials and citizens to promote constructive dialogue as Ghana continues to strengthen its democratic institutions.
Source: newsthemegh.com