Matters Arising on the Proposed Cybersecurity Draft Bill: “If We’re Not Careful, Implementation Will Be Chaotic” – Dr. Kofi Annan
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Senior Lecturer at the Ghana Communication Technology University and Certified Cybersecurity Expert, Dr. Kofi Annan, has cautioned that the implementation of the proposed Cybersecurity Draft Bill could turn chaotic if political interests are allowed to influence its execution.
According to Dr. Annan, the proposed bill is not an entirely new law but rather an upgrade of existing cyber regulations. He explained that previously, individuals who engaged in misconduct online could not be effectively prosecuted due to the absence of specific legal backing. The new bill, he said, seeks to provide a clear framework and logistics to govern online behavior.
However, Dr. Annan expressed concern about how political parties might exploit the law once it comes into force. He warned that if the legislation becomes a tool for political control or censorship—particularly against critics on social media—it could stifle free expression and undermine democratic accountability.
“Social media is a powerful tool,” he noted. “It travels fast, crosses borders, and gives people a voice. That is why many governments fear it when citizens use it for advocacy.”
Dr. Annan stressed that while regulation is necessary, the amendment must be handled with transparency and broad public education. Without that, he said, the process risks being misinterpreted or manipulated for partisan gain.
He concluded by urging policymakers to prioritize national interest and digital rights over political convenience, warning that failure to do so could lead to confusion, abuse, and public mistrust in the law’s implementation.
