A senior member of the National Peace Council has expressed concern over the growing hostility in the country’s political space.

He warned that the increasing use of insults and aggressive rhetoric could threaten national unity and weaken democratic values.

Speaking on the Asaase Breakfast Show on Thursday, 21 May 2026, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu said political discussions in Ghana are becoming increasingly confrontational, with civility gradually giving way to personal attacks and intolerance.

“Currently, our political discourse is toxic. It shows political intolerance, verbal violence and lack of civility in language,” he said.

According to Shaibu, the rise in inflammatory political commentary, especially on social media, is creating a worrying atmosphere where harsh language is often mistaken for bold leadership.

“There is a mindset that to show toughness, you must speak harshly and prepare the minds of supporters for possible actions,” he said.

He warned that democracy becomes endangered when political disagreements move beyond debates over ideas and policies and descend into insults, revenge-driven rhetoric and open hostility.

“That is when we are crossing the line,” he added.

Shaibu stressed that political competition should inspire constructive national conversations rather than deepen divisions among citizens. He cautioned that if the current trend continues unchecked, democracy itself could become “detrimental to development.”

The Peace Council member also called for broader national discussions on the limits of free speech, saying there is a need to clearly define harmful political expression without undermining constitutional rights.

“Freedom of expression is essential, but it is not absolute,” Shaibu said.

He added that clearer legal thresholds could help prevent arbitrary enforcement and build public trust.

Beyond politics, he expressed concern about the effect such behaviour could have on younger generations, warning that constant exposure to disrespectful political exchanges risks normalising intolerance and eroding Ghana’s culture of respectful dialogue.

“We must not leave a legacy of hate speech and disrespect. Political opponents are not enemies,” he said.

NA/VPO

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