The President of the Ghana Stammering Association, Emmanuel Addo, has called on fluent speakers to refrain from completing the sentences of People Who Stammer (PWS) during conversations.
He explained that while such acts may be perceived as helpful, they actually prevent individuals who stammer from fully expressing themselves and being truly heard.
Speaking in an interview with The Mirror in Accra, Mr. Addo clarified that stammering is not caused by forgetfulness or uncertainty.
He noted that completing the statements of a person who stammers often forces them to repeat themselves in order to be understood.
Instead, he urged the public to respectfully ask PWS what form of support they find useful in communication.
He further condemned the ridicule often directed at people who stammer, describing it as cruel and damaging.
According to him, since stammering is beyond the control of those affected, mocking them only deepens stigma and lowers their quality of life.
He encouraged fluent speakers to demonstrate empathy, kindness, and patience to help create an environment where PWS can speak confidently and without fear.
