The National Organiser of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as Nana B, has criticised the government for what he believes is the growing involvement of state security agencies in issues linked to defamation and political commentary.
He argued that people who believe they have been defamed should resolve such matters in court instead of involving the police or security agencies.
His remarks follow the arrest of the NPP’s Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, also known as Abronye DC.
The arrest has increased concerns within the opposition party, which claims that some actions are being taken to silence free expression.
Speaking to the media, Nana B stated that defamation cases should remain civil matters and should not become criminal investigations handled by the police.
“If anybody feels slighted or is of the view that he has been defamed, the person can proceed to court. There is civil procedure and there is criminal procedure. Why should the police and the security agencies be involved in such matters?” he questioned.
Nana B also expressed concern about the rising involvement of security agencies in cases connected to political commentary and satire.
According to him, this trend threatens freedom of expression in the country.
“It has reached its alarming heights and I think that all must speak against it. We are in a country where obnoxious laws are used to oppress free speech. Repressive tactics are used to oppress free speech,” he said.
He further stressed that the NPP would not allow such actions to intimidate its members or political opponents.
“We are not intimidated by these tactics,” he added.
