The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has raised serious concerns over what he describes as increasing attacks on free speech and the rights of party members and supporters under the current National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration.
He stated that he has observed with “great concern” what he called a persistent pattern of arrests, detentions, intimidation, and what he described as “unconscionable bail conditions” targeting NPP officers, activists, and supporters since the government assumed office on January 7, 2025.
According to Dr. Bawumia, these actions represent a growing threat to Ghana’s democratic culture and freedoms. He alleged that such incidents have become frequent and appear to be aimed at silencing dissenting voices within the opposition.
He cited recent cases, including the arrest and brief detention of social media user David Essandoh, who reportedly expressed concerns online about the return of “dumsor,” as well as the custody of the NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye. He described these incidents as troubling examples of intimidation against political opponents.
Dr. Bawumia condemned what he called the “unholy collaboration” between elements of the Executive, state investigative bodies, and sections of the judiciary, accusing them of being used to suppress free expression and political opposition.
He warned that the use of state power to intimidate citizens and political actors undermines Ghana’s democratic progress and sets a dangerous precedent for governance and accountability.
“The abuse of state power will be accounted for,” he cautioned, adding that those involved in such actions would one day face consequences when accountability is demanded.
Despite these concerns, Dr. Bawumia urged party members and supporters nationwide to remain steadfast and resilient. He encouraged them not to be intimidated but to continue exercising their democratic rights and holding the government accountable to its promises.
He emphasised that Ghana’s democracy was hard-won and must not be compromised by fear or political pressure, calling on citizens to protect and preserve democratic freedoms for future generations.
