The Minority in Parliament has intensified calls for President John Dramani Mahama to repeal Sections 207 and 208 of Ghana’s Criminal Offences Act, arguing that the provisions threaten freedom of expression and democratic accountability.
According to the Minority, the continued existence of the criminal libel provisions raises concerns about free speech and could have a chilling effect on journalists, media practitioners, political critics, and ordinary citizens who express their views on matters of public interest.
The lawmakers urged President Mahama to take decisive action by initiating the repeal of the controversial sections, describing the move as a crucial step toward strengthening Ghana’s democratic credentials and protecting constitutional rights.
The Minority maintains that abolishing the provisions would reaffirm the government’s commitment to press freedom, human rights, and open democratic discourse. They also called on stakeholders, including civil society organizations and the media, to support efforts aimed at ensuring that laws governing public expression align with democratic principles.
The appeal is expected to reignite national debate over freedom of speech, media independence, and legal reforms, with many observers closely watching the government’s response to the Minority’s demands.
