- President Mahama held his first Presidential Media Encounter on September 10, 2025.
- He warned social media users against spreading falsehoods and hate speech.
- Offenders will be tracked using IP technology and prosecuted under the criminal code.
- The National Signals Bureau (NSB) has been authorized to trace and act on such cases.
- Mahama rejected claims that hate speech falls under free speech protections.
- He cited offensive comments made after the August 6 helicopter crash as examples.
- Four TikTok content creators have been arrested and charged over such remarks.
- All four have been granted bail.
- Mahama called for regulation of emerging media platforms to curb abuse.
President John Mahama has issued a strong warning to social media users who spread falsehoods and hate speech, declaring that such behavior will be treated as a criminal offense. Speaking during his first Presidential Media Encounter on September 10, 2025, Mahama emphasized that Ghana’s security agencies now have the tools to trace online offenders using IP tracking technology.
The National Signals Bureau (NSB) has been granted full authority to locate individuals who incite violence or disturb public peace through digital platforms. Mahama made it clear that these actions will not be shielded by claims of free speech, stating that hate speech and misinformation will be prosecuted under the criminal code.
His remarks follow a wave of abusive commentary on social media, particularly after the tragic helicopter crash on August 6 that claimed the lives of eight Ghanaian statesmen. Mahama referenced disturbing posts made by opposition-aligned activists, including comments wishing death upon public figures.
In response, four TikTok content creators have been arrested for remarks made during a live session. They’ve been charged with conspiracy to commit a crime and offensive conduct likely to breach public peace. All four have since been granted bail.
Mahama also called for formal regulation of emerging media platforms, arguing that the absence of oversight has allowed harmful narratives to flourish. He stressed that while digital media offers new opportunities for expression, it must not become a tool for incitement or abuse.
