The Online Publishers Association of Ghana has strongly condemned what it describes as abusive and defamatory comments made on social media against John Dramani Mahama and Lordina Mahama by TikToker Priscila Ansong.
In a statement signed by OPAG President Michael Petit Mawugbe, the association described the comments as harmful to the integrity of Ghana’s digital space and warned against the misuse of social media for personal promotion or attacks on public figures.
OPAG said it considers such conduct counter-productive to the development and sustainability of the online space, which must be guarded religiously, adding that although the comments were allegedly made to promote an upcoming movie, ignorance of the law is not an excuse, given that such actions can lead to harm, division, and erosion of trust in public institutions.
The association further reminded online publishers and digital practitioners that Ghana’s cyber laws provide clear sanctions against online harassment and defamation.
“All online publishers and practitioners must at all times be wary of the fact that the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038) and the Electronic Communications Act (Act 775) are used to prosecute culprits of online harassment and defamation, for which they must desist from such behaviour,” the statement noted.
OPAG stressed that the online space should serve as a platform for social cohesion and responsible civic engagement, urging users to uphold respect, dignity, and professional standards in digital communication.
The association also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting digital literacy as part of efforts to curb misinformation, disinformation, hate speech, and polarised narratives online.
It said it remains ready to work with relevant authorities to encourage constructive dialogue and fact-based public discussions in Ghana’s digital ecosystem. 🇬🇭