Perimeter of Freedom of Speech abelplackie2@yahoo In a democratic society, great emphasis is placed on freedom of the individual and his role in the development of the state. Accordingly the drafters of the Liberian Constitution exercised meticulous care in securing the rights of the individual. This is important for the preservation of peace, unity and security among the people undoubtedly forms the real basis for National progress and prosperity. It is necessary, therefore, that all of us should combine our forces and join in a concentrated and positive action for the ever progressive development and security of our nation. Each of us has an individual responsibility to the other and, as members of the society in which we live, a collective responsibility to the state. Hence, every one of us has equal rights before the law and corresponding duties which, in this country, have been clearly set forth in the “law of the land.’’ Be that as it may, our right, freedom or liberty to act is by definition limited in relation to its effect on the free exercise of the rights of others. The freedom of speech and the liberty of the press, for example, do not bestow an absolute right on any individual to speak or write whatever he may choose without responsibility for its abuse. Nor does it authorize an unrestricted and unbridled permit that give immunity to anyone to publish anything one pleases with impunity; for this would be a patent abuse of that freedom. Freedom of speech does not mean setting up roadblocks, disruption of classes, prevention of other students from attending classes, disrespect for constituted authority and parents, holding professor and teacher’s hostage, destruction of peaceful citizens’ property, calling on various radio talk shows and spew out insulting on others and inflicting injuries on innocent people etc. In the language of the constitution of the Republic of Liberia, it is expressly recorded that “the free communication of thoughts and opinions is one of the invaluable rights of every citizens, write and print, on any subject, being responsible for the abuse of that liberty.’’ Article 15 of the Liberian constitution declares. However, while each and every citizen may equally and fully enjoy the freedom of speech and press guaranteed by the Liberians constitution, the liberty of expression is not absolute; and may be restrained in any circumstances where its exercise bears causal relation with some substantive evil, either to another person, or the state. Utterances whether in words or print, inimical to the general public welfare, tending to corrupt the public morals, incite to crime, disturb the public peace or endangering the foundation of legally organized government constitute an abuse of the freedom of speech, and are punishable by the state in accordance with law. “A man’s conscience must direct him to do those things that are socially approved by the society in which he lives”. Liberia’s dramatic exit from being internationally labeled as a pariah state to a post conflict success story needs to be consolidated not spewing out lies and falsehood to the public in the name of freedom of speech. We applaud those who speak to national issues with caution and respect. Where are we with freedom of speech and press? Are we caution or abusing the freedom we now enjoy? Liberians, let us aspire for entrepreneurship rather than “conversational employment”. The term nation building is usually used to refer to a constructive process of engaging all citizens in building social cohesion, economic prosperity and political stability in an inclusive and democratic way. Finally, let’s stop abusing this freedom of speech that was fought for by great people and rather chose a career and develop moral and ethical code values that will become honest, productive, upright citizens and good examples for others to emulate.
Posted on: Fri, 09 Aug 2013 17:56:43 +0000
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