Bawumia calls for prosecution to be dropped over “false news” comments
Accra, July 22, 2026 —
Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, has called for the immediate discontinuation of a prosecution undertaken in his name.
In a press release issued by his Office on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia addressed the arrest and arraignment of an NDC organiser in Agona West. The individual is facing charges of allegedly publishing false news and making offensive comments about Dr. Bawumia.
The Office stated clearly that Dr. Bawumia “has neither lodged any complaint nor sanctioned any prosecution against this young man or any other citizen.”
Key points from the release:
- No endorsement of arrests: Dr. Bawumia said he “does not desire, and will not endorse, the arrest or prosecution of any Ghanaian in his name for speech.”
- Response to criticism: He noted he has been the subject of insults and falsehoods throughout his public life but has “never responded with the instruments of state power, and he will not begin now.”
- His position: “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.”
Dr. Bawumia has therefore “respectfully” called on the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue the prosecution and any similar actions purportedly undertaken on his behalf. He also asked that the young man be released to return to his family and livelihood.
He added that Ghana’s democracy is strengthened when citizens, “including those who oppose us, can speak freely without fear.”
The statement concluded with Dr. Bawumia saying he forgives the young man, wishes him well, and is urging all political actors to “channel their energies toward the issues that matter to the Ghanaian people.”
The release was signed by the Communications Directorate of the Office of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
Read the full statement below:
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