Former Vice President and 2028 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has raised concerns about what he describes as increasing attacks on free speech and democratic rights under the current National Democratic Congress administration.
In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, Dr Bawumia claimed that NPP officers, activists, and supporters had faced intimidation, arrests, and detentions since the NDC assumed office in January 2025.
He said the actions taken against members of the opposition could undermine Ghana’s democratic gains.
“I have observed with great concern the continuous assault on the fundamental rights of officers, activists, and supporters of the New Patriotic Party across the country by this NDC Government,” he stated.
According to Dr Bawumia, incidents involving arrests, detentions, and what he described as excessive bail conditions had become increasingly common under the current administration.
He cited the arrest and later release of David Essandoh over social media comments regarding the return of dumsor, as well as the detention of Kwame Baffoe Abronye.
Dr Bawumia argued that such actions were intended to silence opposing voices and intimidate political opponents.
“These actions undermine free speech and risk reversing Ghana’s democratic progress,” he said, while also criticising what he called “an unhealthy collaboration between the Executive, State investigative agencies, and some elements within the judiciary.”
The former Vice President urged NPP supporters to remain resolute and continue holding the government accountable through democratic means despite the alleged intimidation.
“To Patriots across the country, I encourage you to remain firm and not give in to intimidation while continuing your civic responsibility of holding the Government accountable to its promises,” he stated.
He further stressed that Ghana’s democracy had been achieved through sacrifice and should not be weakened by “those who hold temporary power today.”
