The Attorney General and Minister for Justice, Dr. Dominic Ayine, has rejected allegations from the Minority that the Mahama administration is restricting free speech, describing the claims as overstated.
His remarks follow a petition by the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) to the diplomatic community, urging international stakeholders to reaffirm the importance of free expression, judicial independence, due process, and political tolerance within Ghana’s democratic system.
Speaking to journalists after appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Dr. Ayine emphasized that although freedom of expression is protected by the Constitution, it is not unlimited.
He stressed that the government remains committed to safeguarding citizens’ rights while also maintaining public order and national stability.
He argued that the Minority’s claims of censorship were exaggerated, citing constitutional provisions under Chapter 5 and Article 21, which allow certain restrictions on free speech when it threatens public order or morality.
According to him, speech that incites hatred or violence cannot be ignored by the state, and authorities are obligated to act in such situations rather than remain passive.

