Former Vice-President and flag bearer of the New Patriotic Party, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration of undermining democratic freedoms through what he describes as the intimidation and harassment of members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP).
In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, Dr. Bawumia expressed concern over what he termed “endless assault” on the rights of NPP officers, activists, and supporters since the NDC assumed office on January 7, 2025.
According to him, arrests, detentions, and unconscionable bail conditions has become a persistent feature under the current administration.
Dr. Bawumia cited the recent arrest and detention of David Essandoh, who allegedly criticised the return of power outages, popularly known as “dumsor”, on social media, as well as the detention of NPP Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe Abronye, as examples of attempts to suppress dissent.
“These actions undermine free speech and are setting Ghana’s democracy backwards,” he stated.
The former Vice-President further alleged an “unholy collaboration” between the Executive, state investigative agencies, and some members of the judiciary aimed at silencing opposition voices.
“I condemn in the strongest terms the unholy collaboration between the Executive, State investigative agencies, and some elements within the judiciary to use intimidation and harassment to silence members of the New Patriotic Party,” the statement said.
Dr. Bawumia also warned state officials allegedly involved in such actions that they would one day be held accountable for any abuse of power.
“I therefore serve notice to officers of the State who are active participants in this unholy enterprise that the day of accountability will come and the abuse of State power will be accounted for,” he said.
He urged supporters of the NPP to remain resolute and continue holding government accountable, despite the 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 government and security agencies are yet to publicly respond to the allegations.
