Supreme Court nominee Justice Kweku T. Ackaah-Boafo has underscored the importance of free speech in Ghana’s democracy but cautioned that such freedoms must be exercised with responsibility.
Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Friday, June 20, 2025—following the dismissal of a petition against his nomination—Justice Ackaah-Boafo expressed concern over the growing misuse of digital platforms and the increasing trend of online abuse.
Referencing Lord Denning’s opinion in the British Steel Corporation case, he warned that social media has significantly magnified the impact of defamation and libel.
“I quoted Lord Denning in British Steel Corporation. I think free speech is not cheap. People should have the right to express themselves, but in doing so, they must not abuse others or defame them,” he said.
“We should recognize that online abuse is even more serious than the old traditional way, because whatever you write online can be read in Australia or anywhere else—and it stays there permanently.”
Justice Ackaah-Boafo stressed that while Ghana encourages freedom of expression, it must be balanced with accountability.
“I believe in free speech, but free speech must come with responsibility,” he added.
He also reminded the public that Ghana’s defamation and libel laws still apply to content shared on social media.
“Social media has not done away with our libel laws—they are still applicable. So if you go contrary to the law on social media and someone sues you, the courts will hear it,” he cautioned.
Justice Ackaah-Boafo’s comments add to ongoing discussions about digital responsibility and the legal limits of speech in the digital age.
Source: Ghana/Starrfm.com.gh/Hamdia Mohammed
