Free Speech: Hakim Adams defends NPP’s petition to diplomatic community
Chiana-Paga NPP communicator says criticism of government must be protected in every democratic society
The Communications Director of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Chiana-Paga Constituency, Hakim Adams, has defended the party’s decision to petition the diplomatic community over what he describes as rising intolerance and acts of injustice under the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to him, the move became necessary because the current administration is allegedly creating an environment where citizens are unable to freely criticize government actions without fear.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Friday, May 22, Adams stressed that criticism is a vital component of every democratic society and should never be suppressed by any government.
“In Ghana, when the government is doing well, we should praise them. But when they are not performing, we must criticize them. Government must create room for criticism because that is part of democracy,” he stated.
He explained that citizens have a constitutional right to point out mistakes and shortcomings of leaders whenever policies or decisions fail to serve the public interest, while also commending government when it performs creditably.
Adams further alleged that the NDC administration appears intolerant of opposing views and is fostering an atmosphere of fear, claiming that several supporters of the NPP have been arrested for expressing criticism against the government.
He warned that any attempt to silence dissenting voices could undermine Ghana’s democratic credentials and weaken freedom of expression in the country.
The NPP communicator therefore called on civil society organisations, the diplomatic community, and the general public to remain vigilant and safeguard the democratic rights and freedoms of all citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.
Mike 105.3FM I Navrongo | Elizabeth Apusaama
