Government Spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu has reaffirmed President John Mahama’s commitment to media freedom while cautioning against the misuse of social media in ways that could undermine national cohesion. He made the remarks at the launch of the 29th Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Media Awards held in Accra on Thursday.
Kwakye Ofosu, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Abura-Asebu-Kwamankese, assured journalists that President Mahama remains an ardent supporter of free expression and welcomes constructive criticism, especially from the media. However, he noted that this openness does not extend to the irresponsible use of digital platforms.
“Let me assure you that the government has no intention of curbing freedoms,” he said. “President Mahama, as you know him, supports the expression of free speech. He is remarkably tolerant and open to criticism.”
The spokesperson, however, cautioned that such freedoms must be exercised responsibly. “As President and head of government, he bears the same duty as any leader to ensure that our social fabric is not torn apart by the abuse of this new platform,” he added, referring to social media.
His comments come amid ongoing global debates about regulating online spaces without infringing on fundamental rights. Critics often argue that broad terms like “abuse” and “social cohesion” can be used to justify restrictions on dissent or control narratives that challenge those in power.
Kwakye Ofosu’s remarks left the definition of “social media abuse” open to interpretation—an ambiguity that could influence how citizens engage in digital political discourse. The balance between safeguarding free speech and managing harmful content continues to test democracies worldwide, and Ghana is no exception.
The event also underscored journalism’s pivotal role in Ghana’s democratic journey. GJA President Albert Dwumfuor emphasized that journalists remain the “Fourth Estate,” responsible for holding government accountable. “The story of Ghana cannot be written without the voices of her journalists,” he said. “Our nation’s future depends on the strength, integrity, and patriotism of the media.”
A nine-member awards committee, chaired by Gabriel Bosompem, former Commissioner of the National Media Commission and former Production Manager at TV3, was inaugurated to vet this year’s entries. The awards will honor outstanding journalists whose work promotes democratic governance and national development.
Kwakye Ofosu’s message reflects a growing tension in modern governance—upholding press freedom while confronting the disruptive influence of social media. Whether the Mahama administration can sustain its record of tolerance while addressing online misconduct may become a defining measure of its commitment to democracy.
Now in its 29th year, the GJA Media Awards continue to celebrate journalism that strengthens Ghana’s democracy, even as debates over free expression in the digital age remain unresolved.
Source: Newsghana.com
