Hate speech must not define Ghana’s democracy – Bombande

Peacebuilding and Security Expert, Emmanuel Bombande, has called for stronger efforts to prevent hate speech in Ghana, stressing that freedom of expression must be exercised without endangering national peace and security.

Addressing concerns over growing political hostility and public comments that incite division, Mr. Bombande said Ghana’s democracy would only thrive when citizens learn to debate issues respectfully without attacking personalities or promoting violence.

“We must make sure that whatever is happening, there is a healthy balance, and that healthy balance is never to allow hate speech to take over our discourse,” he stated while explaining the need to protect both free speech and public order.

According to him, Ghana must avoid any form of language that promotes hatred based on politics, religion, ethnicity or social differences, as such rhetoric could gradually create deep divisions within society.

He warned that history has shown how dangerous speech can become when it dehumanises groups of people, pointing to the 1994 Rwanda genocide as a painful example.

He recalled how a radio station in Rwanda referred to people as “cockroaches,” a message which gradually encouraged violence and contributed to the deaths of nearly 800,000 people.

Mr. Bombande also defended the role of the police in responding to dangerous comments, insisting that law enforcement agencies have the difficult responsibility of balancing citizens’ rights with national stability.

“It should never be the political parties. It should never be the executive arm of government. We must trust in the independence and professionalism of our police,” he said on who should determine when speech crosses the line into hate speech.

He noted that some controversial remarks may not necessarily require punishment, but statements perceived to encourage violence or threaten national leaders must be treated with seriousness.

He further criticised the increasing tendency for political discourse to become personal and abusive, saying public discussions should focus on policies and ideas rather than humiliation and insults.

He praised issue-based communicators who challenge opinions without attacking individuals, arguing that respectful engagement would strengthen Ghana’s democratic culture.

He concluded by urging Ghanaians to reject hate speech and instead promote tolerance, mutual respect and responsible expression to preserve the country’s peace and democratic gains.