Freedom of speech comes with responsibility – Sam George

Minister for Communication, Digital Technology and Innovation, Samuel Nartey George, has urged Ghanaians to exercise greater responsibility in public discourse, saying the protection of free speech must go hand in hand with a commitment to national unity and social harmony.

Speaking in Accra on Tuesday, the minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding constitutional freedoms, stressing that the right to express opinions remains a fundamental pillar of Ghana’s democratic system.

He, however, cautioned that freedom of expression should not be interpreted as a licence for reckless communication capable of undermining peace, cohesion and national development.

Mr. George noted that building a stronger nation requires active participation from citizens, not only through engagement in public debate but also through responsible conduct in the way opinions are expressed.

According to him, preserving Ghana’s democratic gains demands a collective effort from both government and citizens, with every individual playing a role in promoting respectful and constructive dialogue.

The minister made the remarks during a brief appearance at a press conference organised by the Minority Caucus, where issues relating to governance, democracy and public accountability featured prominently.

He assured the public that the government remains committed to protecting freedom of speech and has no intention of curtailing the rights guaranteed under the Constitution.

“We have a country to protect and we will build our country together. Free speech will be protected under this government and every other government but we should also be responsible in our utterances and that is all we are asking for,” he stated.

Mr. George stressed that safeguarding the country’s peace and stability should remain a shared responsibility, particularly at a time when information can spread rapidly through digital platforms and social media.

He observed that public commentary has the power to influence perceptions, shape opinions and affect national conversations, making it important for citizens to communicate responsibly.

“We have one country, one people and so, be rest assured, your freedom of speech is guaranteed,” he added.

His remarks come amid broader discussions on the balance between constitutional freedoms and responsible citizenship, particularly in an era of increasing online engagement and heightened political discourse.