Former Majority Leader and Suame MP, Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu has called for a national dialogue on responsible political communication, arguing that inflammatory comments and unsubstantiated allegations have become a widespread problem across Ghana’s political divide.

Speaking in an interview about recent arrests linked to controversial political remarks, including those involving NPP communicator Abronye, the former majority leader defended the importance of free speech while stressing the need for responsibility.

“Free speech or freedom of speech makes democracy thrive. But we have to be careful of our freedom,” he said.

While acknowledging that some comments made by members of his own political tradition may be inappropriate, he rejected suggestions that offensive political rhetoric is exclusive to one party.

“Is it the case that only NPP members are doing that?” he asked.

The politician cited comments allegedly made by former President John Mahama during a campaign, in which he suggested that former President Nana Akufo-Addo’s associates could steal state funds on his behalf.

Questioning the basis of such remarks, he said: “Does he have evidence? He mentioned their names. Gabby and Bediatuo will steal the money for him. Does he have evidence that they are thieves?”

According to him, making accusations without evidence amounts to an insult and should not be excused because of political affiliation.

“It’s an insult because you are lying on people without having any evidence. I didn’t like that,” he stated.

Despite criticizing the remarks, he expressed admiration for Mahama, saying, “As an individual, I admire John and the way he relates to people, but that statement was very wrong.”

The politician further argued that the problem of disrespectful political communication has persisted under different governments and political administrations.

Referencing comments made by NDC stalwart Johnson Asiedu Nketia during the 2008 election period, Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu questioned the evidence behind allegations directed at political opponents at the time.

“So don’t say that it’s the NPP that speaks disrespectfully. It’s across board. It is bad. It embarrasses the country,” he said.

He also recalled allegations made during the administration of former President John Agyekum Kufuor, when accusations of corruption were levelled against government officials without proof.

While distancing himself from offensive political comments, including those made by members of his own party, he questioned what he described as selective condemnation and enforcement.

“What I am saying is that the country is going wayward. We are disgracing the country and our leaders,” he stated.
He further argued that if similar statements made in the past were not condemned, it would be unfair to demand arrests for comparable remarks today.

“But if someone did it yesterday, including the president himself, and was not condemned, why would you condemn another person doing the same thing today?” he asked.

The politician concluded by calling on national leaders to spearhead discussions aimed at restoring civility to Ghana’s political discourse.

“The president, the vice president, whoever can lead that, we now have to have a national dialogue on this matter,” he said, adding that the conversation should focus on broader democratic principles and not just political insults.