Lawyer and Senior Vice President of IMANI Africa, Kofi Bentil, has cautioned against what he describes as the misuse of state authority to suppress freedom of speech.

Continuing his commentary on JoyNews’ Newsfile as monitored by MyNewsGh, Kofi Bentil emphasized that the right to free expression must be protected, even when opinions expressed are unpopular or offensive.

“Freedom of speech allows people to say things you may disagree with,” he said. “It is not a license for recklessness, but it must still be protected.”

He further stressed that the value of free speech extends beyond individual expression, noting that it plays a key role in national development.

“Speech generates thoughts. Thoughts generate ideas. Ideas build a nation,” he stated.

He made the remarks after a resident of Gambaga in the North East Region of Ghana was reportedly arrested in late April 2026 following a WhatsApp message questioning the fitness of a Municipal Chief Executive (MCE).

“If somebody makes a statement on a private WhatsApp platform and you use your office to summon them, it is a terrible abuse of that person’s rights,” he said.

He added that while people may feel offended by certain remarks, there are legal avenues to address such concerns.

“If you are hurt or offended, there is a civil process for that,” he noted.

Kofi Bentil also expressed concern about what he sees as a pattern of silence from leadership on such matters.

“We need to protect freedom of speech. I may disagree with you, but I will protect your right to speak,” he said.