The 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) running mate, Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, has called on Ghanaians to maintain respect and accountability in political discussions, cautioning against the misuse of democratic freedoms to rationalize insults and personal attacks.
In a Facebook post dated Tuesday, August 11, Dr. Opoku Prempeh, commonly referred to as NAPO, remarked that democracy empowers citizens to question leaders, political parties, and ideologies; however, such critiques should not compromise the dignity of those being addressed.
“Criticism and insult are not synonymous. Criticism highlights what is amiss and can facilitate contemplation on necessary improvements. Insult, on the other hand, aims solely to demean, provoke, or silence. One enhances public discourse, while the other diminishes it,” he articulated.
NAPO expressed his apprehension that political conversations are increasingly centered on disparaging individuals based on their intellect, appearance, or background, rather than addressing the substantive issues they present.
He cautioned that such behavior could adversely affect the youth, who often view political leaders as role models for democratic participation.
“Respect has never equated to silence. It has never implied that elders, leaders, or public officials are immune to criticism,” he asserted.
He noted that criticism is an unavoidable aspect of public service, yet political figures and citizens must learn to contest opposing viewpoints without perceiving those who hold them as adversaries.
NAPO remarked that Ghana’s democratic ethos would be fortified when political conflicts are settled through vigorous ideas rather than personal assaults.
He stressed that freedom of expression must be accompanied by responsibility, urging Ghanaians to advocate for their political beliefs while honoring those of their opponents.
“Democracy necessitates freedom of expression, but it equally demands responsible expression,” he concluded.
