A recent exchange between outspoken media personality Okatakyie Afrifa Mensah and actor Kwaku Manu has stirred conversation on Ghanaian social media. The debate follows Kwaku Manu’s public appeal to former President John Dramani Mahama to introduce laws aimed at curbing the freedom of speech among digital content creators.
According to YEN.com.gh, In a video that has since gone viral, Kwaku Manu voiced concerns about how some social commentators and influencers freely insult public figures under the guise of freedom of expression. He urged Mahama, should he return to power, to take steps to protect the dignity of national leaders and other public personalities.
However, his comments did not sit well with Okatakyie Afrifa, who sharply rebuked the actor. Afrifa labeled Manu’s call as hypocritical and questioned why he remained silent when revered personalities, including the Asantehene, faced public attacks in the past. According to Afrifa, Manu’s selective criticism undermines the very principle of fair discourse he now seeks to defend.
“The same freedom you want to curtail today was what allowed you to speak freely all these years,” Afrifa said in a video response. He further insinuated that Manu’s appeal could be politically motivated, given its timing and the individuals involved.
The incident has triggered mixed reactions online. While some agree with Kwaku Manu’s call for responsible speech, others side with Afrifa, stressing the importance of maintaining free expression in a democratic society—even if it sometimes comes with discomfort.
This clash reflects the growing tensions between public accountability and freedom of speech in Ghana’s digital era. As more personalities weigh in, it’s clear the debate over content regulation and expression in the media space is far from over.
Stay tuned for more developments as the conversation continues to evolve across platforms.