Bawumia accuses NDC government of undermining free speech and democracy

Accra – By Seth Yeboah

NPP Flagbearer Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has accused the National Democratic Congress government of launching a sustained assault on the rights of NPP officers, activists, and supporters since assuming office on January 7, 2025.

In a statement on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia said the government’s actions—ranging from arrests and detentions to what he described as “unconscionable bail conditions”—were undermining free speech and setting Ghana’s democracy backwards.

He cited the recent arrest and detention of David Essandoh for a social media post lamenting the return of dumsor, and the decision to remand NPP Bono Regional Chairman Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, into custody as the latest examples of intimidation.

“These actions undermine free speech and are setting Ghana’s democracy backwards,” Dr. Bawumia said. “I condemn in the strongest of 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 NPP flagbearer warned that officials involved in what he called an “unholy enterprise” would be held accountable when the time comes.

“I serve notice to officers of the State who are active participants that the day of accountability will come and the abuse of State power will be accounted for,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia urged NPP members nationwide to remain resolute and continue holding the government to account.

“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 said. “We fought hard for this democracy, and as a party, we cannot surrender it to intimidation from those who possess temporary power today.”

Read the statement below: