As the world marks the International Day for Countering Hate Speech, Member of Parliament for Asunafo North in the Ahafo Region, Haruna Mohammed, is calling for collective action to foster unity, respect, and inclusivity in public discourse.

Describing hate speech as a tool of discrimination, abuse, and violence, the MP warned it poses a threat to Ghana’s democratic values and social cohesion.

“Hate speech undermines the social fabric of our communities and threatens the democratic values enshrined in Ghana’s 1992 Constitution,” he stated.

In a statement to commemorate the day, Mr Mohammed urged Ghanaians, especially his constituents, to reject divisive rhetoric and instead embrace dialogue that promotes peace and mutual understanding.

He echoed sentiments shared by the United Nations, which has designated 18th June as the International Day for Countering Hate Speech. The UN Secretary-General has stated, “Hate speech is a marker of discrimination, abuse, violence, conflict, and even crimes against humanity. There is no acceptable level of hate speech; we must all work to eradicate it completely.”

According to the MP, hate speech based on ethnicity, religion, gender or other identities is a serious threat to Ghana’s unity, especially in a diverse society.

He highlighted the critical role of local media in shaping public opinion in Asunafo North, which has a population of 151,258 (Ghana Statistical Service, 2021). Radio stations such as Nananom FM, Success FM, Genesis FM, Rejoice FM, Hammers FM, and Kantinka FM remain key platforms for information and engagement. However, he noted they also face challenges in countering misinformation, particularly in rural communities with low digital literacy and just 45% internet penetration (National Communications Authority, 2023).

“As a Member of Parliament, I have called on the National Media Commission (NMC) and the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) to revise media ethics guidelines to tackle new threats posed by Artificial Intelligence, which can amplify misinformation and divisive content,” he said.

Recalling the 2024 election campaign, Mr Mohammed cited attempts to derail progress in Asunafo North through false accusations, including sabotage claims about the AstroTurf project.

He emphasised that his vision remains one of unity, youth empowerment, and inclusive governance. Through initiatives like scholarships for high-performing WASSCE students—such as Samuel
Agyapong, now studying medicine at KNUST—and investments in educational infrastructure, the constituency is being equipped to rise above divisive narratives.

To effectively combat hate speech, the MP proposed the following:

• Strengthen media literacy: Partner with the NMC and local media to roll out digital literacy and critical thinking campaigns.
• Promote inclusive dialogue: Establish town hall meetings to encourage respectful discussions on sensitive issues.
• Advocate national policy reforms: Criminalise hate speech while safeguarding free expression in line with international standards.
• Engage key influencers: Involve traditional leaders, religious groups, and youth organisations in promoting tolerance.

“As your representative, I am committed to fostering a constituency where every individual feels valued and respected,” Mr Mohammed affirmed. “Let us draw inspiration from Ghana’s history of peaceful coexistence and work together to eradicate hate speech in all its forms.”

On this International Day for Countering Hate Speech, he concluded, “I call on the people of Asunafo North and all Ghanaians to choose words that heal, unite, and uplift.”