The other day I was writing a post about two Ghanaians getting (brief) prison sentences for disrespecting the Supreme Court. This issue has been the inspiration for jokes mimicking the telecom companies’ advertising text messages “Talk and Get Jailed Promotion!”, Akosua’s satires in Daily Guide have covered the issue, see above, and of course there has also been plenty of serious debate, on- and off line. In that debate, it seems many (most?) Ghanaians disagree with my point.
They feel a line was passed and it up to the Supreme Court to make the call where that line is drawn. Freedom of speech means freedom to say what you want, but then it can be judged offensive and you then have to pay the price.
All comments I got on my first blog post belong to this category, here are some excerpts:
“The rules of court proceedings are clear and the restriction of discussion on a case in court is for specific reasons. Such discussions can lead one to make pre-judicial comments” – Elikplim
“This is not a gag on free speech, it is the stifling of loose talkers and irresponsible journalism.” – Nii
“My understanding of free speech is that one is not prevented from making a speech. just that. It cannot mean one must fail responsibility.” – Novisi
“The SC in my candid opinion did the right thing. It’s time people stop abusing “freedom of speech”.” – Abban Budu
One of the few people who did agree with me, a Ghanaian journalist now in graduate school overseas, made the point that we need those willing to test the limits to know where we stand as a nation. But also his argument was met with disbelief.
I love disagreement. Generally, it is interesting and educative and so also in this case. What I have learned is that Ghanaians are seriously concerned about the Supreme Court ruling (the one on the 2012 election outcome), tired of the people trying to stir up emotions and ready to sacrifice for stability.
Tune into Ghana Connect on Joy FM Friday 5 July at 6.30-7.00 PM and hear Ghanaians debate the issue live.
1 Comment
just so I’m not mistaken, I’m against a nebulous law like ‘contempt of court’. But I endorse a man being jailed for false speech or for making a declaration in a state he has no power to so do such as declaring war when the power to so do does not rest with him. If we have such clarity then society should be better off.