The Minority in Parliament has accused the government of waging an “assault on free speech” as the House reconvened for the second meeting of the second session.

‎Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei leveled the charge while delivering the Minority’s welcome address on behalf of Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin. 

‎Speaking to Speaker Alban Sumana Kingsford Babi, the Asokwa MP said the period of parliamentary recess was marked by troubling actions against citizens who expressed dissent.

‎“Armed officers were sent to arrest citizens for expressing dissent,” Appiagyei told the Chamber. “That is an assault on free speech in a democracy.”

‎Appiagyei argued that Parliament could not remain silent when constitutional rights were under threat. 

‎“These are not opposition allegations,” she said. “When the executive fails, Parliament must speak. When the government will not answer, this House must ask. When power is abused, it is our duty to say so clearly and without apology.”

‎She said the Minority was raising the issue “to greet the people of Ghana, the suffering owners of this democracy in whose name we all sit here.”

Sompaonline.com/Bismarck Oppong