Henry Quartey, the Minister of Interior, has declared that the security agencies will deal ruthlessly with people who will spread hate and fear through their online posts in the lead-up to the 2024 general elections.
He issued the warning when he paid a working visit to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, on Monday, April 8, 2024.
He stressed the need for us to maintain public safety and order.
To those who post inflammatory content on social media, the Minister said such persons will not go unpunished.
He said all those who incite violence or panic will face arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.
He praised the police service’s efforts in maintaining security and peace in the country and pledged to provide necessary resources for their duties during the upcoming elections.
“I know that we have passed a law in Parliament against false publications. Social media has become a space where everybody threatens everybody and says anything anyhow. As IGP, you have the powers with you. People sit in the comfort of their rooms and they threaten. Anybody who makes those remarks, we will go after you because that is what the law says.
“Your statements and your actions should not incite the public. It must not create fear and panic in the public. Free speech, free association, free movement, but we must be guided by our statements not to create fear and panic.”
“This is an election year, and by the grace of God, we will ensure free, fair, transparent elections before, during, and after the 2024 elections. That we will not interfere in the elections. We will allow a free, fair, and transparent election. And also, just to let you know the government will continue to retool the Police Service.
“It means before the elections we shall do our best to give the Ghana Police Service more accoutrement to be able to discharge your duties professionally.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
