2024 Polls: We’ll deal with anyone who incites violence – Henry Quartey
Minister of Interior, Henry Quartey, has served notice that the state will deal ruthlessly with persons who spread hate and fear via their online posts ahead of the 2024 general elections.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring public safety and order when he paid a working visit to the Inspector General of Police, Dr. George Akuffo Dampare on Monday, April 8, 2024.
Hon. Henry Quartey also indicated that persons who put out inflammatory content on social media, and incite violence or panic will face legal action.
He emphasized the necessity for appropriate communication to avert fear and discontent, while maintaining the ideals of free speech and association.
“I know that we have passed a law in Parliament against false publications. Social media has become a space where everybody threatens everybody and says anything anyhow. As IGP, you have the powers with you. People sit in the comfort of their rooms and they threaten. Anybody who makes those remarks, we will go after you because that is what the law says.
“Your statements and your actions should not incite the public. It must not create fear and panic in the public. Free speech, free association, free movement, but we must be guided by our statements not to create fear and panic.”
Hon. Quartey commended the police service in maintaining peace and security in the country, pledging to provide the service with the tools it needs to carry out its responsibilities during the elections.
“This is an election year, and by the grace of God, we will ensure free, fair, transparent elections before, during, and after the 2024 elections. That we will not interfere in the elections. We will allow a free, fair, and transparent election. And also, just to let you know the government will continue to retool the Police Service.
“It means before the elections we shall do our best to give the Ghana Police Service more accoutrement to be able to discharge your duties professionally.”
