Veteran journalist Kwesi Pratt has emphasized the fundamental role of protest in a democratic society, even amid recent disruptions in Parliament.
“Protest is very, very necessary. You can’t eliminate protest and have a democratic situation.
The right to free expression is embedded in the right of people to protest,” Pratt said peaking on Good Morning Ghana on Metro TV monitored by MyNewsGh.
He referenced a viral video of a young man protesting the reduction in rice prices under President Muhammad, calling it “a legitimate protest.” However, Pratt cautioned that protests must have context and purpose.
“When there’s disagreement about the interpretation of law, do you shake your waist, wave your fist, and sing Jama songs? It doesn’t resolve anything,” he added, indirectly critiquing the disruptive tactics of Minority MPs during parliamentary proceedings.
Pratt also reflected on parliamentary history, noting the professionalism of the Speaker amid the chaos.
“The Speaker was very measured and carried on the duty of Parliament as if nothing was wrong,” he said, praising the continuation of government business despite the disruptions.
The journalist urged protesters to exercise their rights responsibly. “You can protest about everything, but those who exercise that right ought to take this country a little more seriously,” he concluded.
