Supreme Court nominee Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo has opined that although free speech in Ghana’s democracy was crucial, such freedoms must be exercised with responsibility.
He made the remarks when he appeared before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, June 20, 2025.
He referenced Lord Denning’s opinion in the British Steel Corporation case, arguing that social media has significantly magnified the impact of defamation and libel.
“I quoted Lord Denning in British Steel Corporation. I think free speech is not cheap. People should have the right to express themselves, but in doing so, they must not abuse others or defame them,” he said.
“We should recognise that online abuse is even more serious than the old traditional way because whatever you write online can be read in Australia or anywhere else—and it stays there permanently.”
He added that “I believe in free speech, but free speech must come with responsibility.”
According to him, “Social media has not done away with our libel laws—they are still applicable. So if you go contrary to the law on social media and someone sues you, the courts will hear it.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
