The Flagbearer of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of undermining democracy and free speech through what he described as politically motivated arrests, intimidation, and harassment of opposition members.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Dr. Bawumia expressed concern over what he termed the “endless assault” on the rights of officers, activists, and supporters of the NPP since the NDC administration assumed office on January 7, 2025.
According to him, several actions by state institutions under the current administration point to a deliberate attempt to silence dissenting voices and intimidate members of the opposition party.
Dr. Bawumia cited the recent arrest and detention of social media commentator David Essandoh, who reportedly criticised the return of power outages, popularly known as “dumsor,” as well as the detention of the NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye, popularly known as Abronye DC.
He described the incidents as dangerous developments that threaten Ghana’s democratic credentials and constitutional freedoms.
“These actions undermine free speech and are setting Ghana’s democracy backwards,” the former Vice President stated.
Dr. Bawumia further alleged an “unholy collaboration” between the Executive, state investigative bodies, and sections of the judiciary aimed at suppressing opposition voices through intimidation and excessive bail conditions.
He warned that public officials involved in what he described as the abuse of state power would one day be held accountable for their actions.
“I therefore serve notice to officers of the State who are active participants in this unholy enterprise that the day of accountability will come,” he declared.
The NPP flagbearer also called on party supporters and sympathisers across the country to remain resolute and continue holding the government accountable despite what he described as increasing intimidation.
“We fought hard for this democracy and as a party, we cannot surrender it to intimidation from those who possess temporary power today,” he added.
The statement is expected to further heighten political tensions between the NPP and the governing NDC as debates over governance, civil liberties, and political tolerance continue to dominate the national discourse.
By 1960news.com
