The Ghanaian Centre of the International Pen on Tuesday said it is dismayed at the arrest and detention of its member, Mr Felix Nii Odartey-Wellington.

The police announced the arrest of Mr Odartey-Wellington in Accra accusing him of making a libellous statement against President Jerry Rawlings on a GTV programme, "Breakfast Show", on Monday.

A statement signed by the President of Pen, Mr Frank Mackay Anim-Appiah expressed "disappointment that the security services are allowing themselves to be used to stifle free speech and expression in favour of a few privileged in our society".

"At a time when the entire nation is preparing and working hard towards peaceful, free and fair elections, the intimidation of journalists and writers by the security services, leaves much to be desired," it said.

The statement reminded all institutions, including the security services, of the wind of political change blowing over the world in favour of democratic development and urged all to desist from tendencies that negate the rule of law and freedom of expression.