Former Vice President and 2028 presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party, Mahamudu Bawumia, has strongly criticised the administration of the National Democratic Congress over what he described as an escalating crackdown on free expression and democratic freedoms in Ghana.
In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, the former Vice President alleged that officials, activists, and supporters affiliated with the New Patriotic Party had increasingly become subjects of intimidation, arrests, and detentions since the NDC resumed office in January 2025.
According to Mahamudu Bawumia, the emerging pattern of actions directed at opposition members represents a significant threat to Ghana’s democratic advancement and constitutional liberties.
“I have observed with great concern the endless assault on the fundamental rights of officers, activists, and supporters of the New Patriotic Party across the country by this NDC Government,” he stated.
The former Vice President further argued that what he described as repeated attacks, arrests, prolonged detentions, and excessive bail conditions had become a defining characteristic of the current administration.
Mahamudu Bawumia specifically cited the arrest and subsequent release of David Essandoh over social media remarks concerning the resurgence of dumsor, as well as the detention of Kwame Baffoe Abronye.
He maintained that such actions were intended to suppress opposing views and instil fear among members of the political opposition.
“These actions undermine free speech and are setting Ghana’s democracy backwards,” he declared, while also condemning what he termed “the unholy collaboration between the Executive, State investigative agencies, and some elements within the judiciary.”
The former Vice President further encouraged supporters of the New Patriotic Party to remain resolute and continue exercising their democratic responsibility of demanding accountability from government despite what he characterised as increasing intimidation.
“To Patriots around the country, I urge you all to stay firm by refusing to succumb to intimidation while continuing your civic duty to hold the Government accountable to its promises,” he stated.
Mahamudu Bawumia additionally cautioned that Ghana’s democratic gains had been achieved through years of sacrifice and should not be weakened by individuals occupying positions of authority on a temporary basis.
His remarks are expected to intensify the growing political debate surrounding civil liberties, freedom of expression, and the relationship between state institutions and opposition parties under the current administration.
