Freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democratic societies and a cherished human right – and thus it should remain. During election campaigns throughout the Constituency, the centrality of freedom of expression is even further accentuated as hundreds of people must make up their minds over whom to entrust with the leadership of the constituencies. To help them make their decision, the free exchange of information, ideas and opinions is crucial. For an electoral process to be considered truly free and fair, there must be space for competing ideas and ideologies, and for a public debate in which everyone can be heard. Free speech may be restricted by law, for example if it is necessary to ensure respect of the rights of others. When speech – of any ideological provenance – incites to discrimination, hatred or violence, in some cases pitting different groups against one another, it should be prohibited as soon as possible.
Currently, hundreds of constituents of Asokwa Constituency are going to the polls to choose their representatives for the Various portfolios as constituency Executives, in one of the NDC 🇸🇩🇸🇩party’s largest exercises in democracy. But in our constituency, election processes are being tarnished by an increase in hate speech and some aspirants relentless search for scapegoats. Having monitored campaign processes for some few days, I have the conviction that elections are a most powerful testing grounds for a society’s commitment to human rights values. Thus, it concerns me that numerous elections within the constituency but also beyond – have become staging grounds for Aspirants who use them as platforms for spreading discriminatory rhetoric and inciting to hatred, rather than as opportunities for promoting dignity and dialogue. Hate has entered mainstream politics and the increasing propensity to target and label those who hold different views as unworthy of respect can even lead to physical harm. I have monitored keenly for the past few days on all Asokwa NDC🇸🇩🇸🇩platforms and non of the aspirants have been convincing delegates to vote for them based on their competencies, policies and programs for the betterment of the constituency… All I’m seeing is team Sheriff and Team Kasim pictures and fliers been posted on all platforms within the constituency..
I believe this is the time for all those vying for the various portfolios, make it known to the delegates what they are bringing on board when they are given the nod…..
Aspirants , in their capacity as leaders and influencers, have more responsibility than many others in this context, because they have the power to shape the debate and to shift public opinion, either positively or negatively.2024 general elections isn’t a child’s play for the NDC🇸🇩🇸🇩as a party . That is why we need to elect competent people to steer the affairs of our dear ASOKWA CONSTITUENCY to rescue power from the ruling party NPP…
Let’s Vote for Competency
Asokwa Must work Again
Asokwa Deserves Better
Amo Mensah Mark
My. Zion Methodist church branch Secretary
Ahinsan Electoral Area
A concerned Democrat✊
