The Ashanti Regional President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kofi Adu Domfe, has defended the jailing of a TikToker over alleged defamatory comments about the President, insisting that freedom of speech does not give anyone the right to spread falsehoods.

Speaking on the growing controversy surrounding the case via a zoom interview on Kessben TV’s Digest show, Mr. Domfe cautioned that social media platforms must not become safe havens for reckless and defamatory content.
“The social media must not be used recklessly,” he stated.

He stressed that bloggers, influencers, and journalists should not hide behind the principle of free speech to justify defamatory publications.
“Bloggers and journalists must not frown on defamation law in the name of free speech.”
Mr. Domfe also expressed concern over the increasing number of unregulated online content creators, saying many people now claim to be journalists simply because they own smartphones.
“Everybody picks a phone and begins to claim they are news publishers, denting the image of ethical journalism.”

According to him, the media landscape requires greater accountability to protect the integrity of journalism and ensure the public receives credible information.
He therefore called for stronger regulation of new media platforms and content creators.
“We need to pay critical attention to the new media and streamline their activities.”

Commenting on the jailed TikToker’s remarks about the President, Mr. Dimfe argued that the statements amounted to unsubstantiated falsehoods that fall within the scope of criminal offences.
“What the woman said on social media about the President borders on defamation and unsubstantiated falsehood.”
He concluded by reminding media practitioners and online commentators that the constitutional right to free expression comes with responsibility.
“Freedom of speech has its limitation, so whether you are a blogger or a journalist, you must be responsible and mindful of the kind of information you spread to the public.”

His remarks come amid an intensifying national debate over online misinformation, responsible digital communication, and the balance between free expression and accountability on social media.

By Maurice Otoo

New Patriotic Party (NPP) communicator Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, has reportedly been admitted to the Adabraka Polyclinic after being arrested and detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) a few days ago.

According to information available, KOKA was taken to the health facility after developing health complications following his arrest and detention.

Details regarding his medical condition have not been made public, and it is unclear how long he is expected to remain under medical care.

Dennis Edward Aboagye has shared what he describes as a significant endorsement from former President John Agyekum Kufuor, saying he and his team received a “sacred blessing” from the respected statesman.

In a social media post, Aboagye revealed that the former President expressed confidence in his ability to deliver on his responsibilities, citing his communication skills, intelligence and understanding of governance.

According to Aboagye, former President Kufuor told him:

> “The little I know about you, your articulation, your intelligence and your understanding of the systems and structures, I am convinced you can do the work. And once we have identified someone who can do it, all we have to do is to back you, so you can deliver.”

The statement, which Aboagye attributed to the former President, reflects Kufuor’s confidence in his capabilities and his willingness to offer support once the right person has been identified for the task.

Reacting to the endorsement, Aboagye wrote that he and his team had received their “sacred blessing” from the revered former Head of State before concluding his message with a bold declaration:

“WE WILL COMMAND THE NARRATIVE.”