Former Vice President and 2024 New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for the immediate discontinuation of the prosecution of a National Democratic Congress (NDC) organiser in the Agona West Constituency, insisting that he has neither lodged a complaint nor authorised any legal action against the individual.
In a press release issued by the Office of Dr. Bawumia on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, the NPP flagbearer said he had become aware of the arrest and arraignment of the NDC organiser, who is facing charges for allegedly publishing false news and making offensive comments about him.
Dr. Bawumia stressed that he has never sought the arrest or prosecution of any Ghanaian over speech made against him.
“Dr. Bawumia wishes to state, clearly and unequivocally, that he has neither lodged any complaint nor sanctioned any prosecution against this young man or any other citizen. He does not desire, and will not endorse, the arrest or prosecution of any Ghanaian in his name for speech,” the statement said.
According to the statement, Dr. Bawumia has endured insults, criticism and false allegations throughout his years in public office but has consistently chosen not to respond through the use of state institutions.
He maintained that freedom of expression remains a vital pillar of Ghana’s democracy and argued that offensive or false statements should be countered through dialogue and facts rather than criminal prosecution.
“The answer to offensive speech is better speech, and the answer to falsehood is truth, not handcuffs, courtrooms, and crushing bail conditions imposed on ordinary Ghanaians,” the statement noted.
Dr. Bawumia therefore appealed to the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue the ongoing prosecution, as well as any similar cases that may have been initiated in his name.
He further urged the authorities to release the accused to reunite with his family and continue his livelihood.
The NPP flagbearer also said he bears no ill will towards the accused and has forgiven him.
“Dr. Bawumia forgives the young man, wishes him well, and urges all political actors to channel their energies toward the issues that matter to the Ghanaian people,” the statement added.
The Communications Directorate of Dr. Bawumia’s office concluded by emphasizing that Ghana’s democratic credentials are strengthened when citizens, including political opponents, are able to express their views freely without fear of arrest or prosecution.
The statement comes amid ongoing public debate over freedom of expression and the prosecution of individuals accused of making allegedly false or offensive statements against political figures.
By 1960news.com
