The Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mahamudu Bawumia, has expressed concern over what he describes as increasing intimidation, arrests, and harassment of party supporters by the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC), warning that such actions threaten Ghana’s democratic values and free speech.
In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, under the headline “Democracy and Free Speech Under Siege,” Dr. Bawumia accused the government of orchestrating a sustained clampdown on NPP officers, activists, and supporters across the country since assuming office in January 2025.
According to him, arrests, detentions, and what he termed “unconscionable bail conditions” have become a persistent feature under the current administration, creating fear among opposition members.
Dr. Bawumia referenced what he described as recent incidents involving the arrest and detention of David Essandoh over social media comments regarding the return of dumsor, as well as the detention of Kwame Baffoe Abronye, the NPP Bono Regional Chairman.
He argued that such actions undermine free speech and risk setting Ghana’s democracy backwards. The former Vice President further alleged an “unholy collaboration” between the Executive, state investigative bodies, and sections of the judiciary aimed at intimidating members of the opposition party.
The NPP flagbearer also issued a warning to state officials he claims are participating in such actions, stating that a day of accountability would come and alleged abuses of state power would be addressed.
He, however, called on party faithful and sympathizers across the country to remain resolute and refuse to be intimidated, urging them to continue playing their civic role by holding the government accountable to its promises.
“We fought hard for this democracy and as a party, we cannot surrender it to intimidation from those who possess temporary power today,” the statement said.
Ghana|Atinkaonline.com