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The flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused the governing National Democratic Congress administration of undermining democracy and free speech through what he described as the intimidation and harassment of members of the party.
In a statement issued in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, the former Vice President of Ghana expressed grave concern over what he called an "endless assault" on the fundamental rights of NPP officers, activists, and supporters across the country since the NDC government assumed office on January 7, 2025.
According to Dr Bawumia, arrests, detentions, and what he termed "unconscionable bail conditions" imposed on some party members represent a worrying trend that threatens Ghana's democratic credentials.
The NPP flagbearer cited the recent arrest and detention of social media commentator David Essandoh, who had lamented online about the return of "dumsor" (power outages), as well as the decision to place NPP Bono Regional Chairman Kwame Baffoe Abronye in custody, as examples of what he termed politically motivated intimidation.
"These actions undermine free speech and are setting Ghana's democracy backwards," he stated.
Dr Bawumia further alleged an "unholy collaboration between the Executive, State investigative agencies, and some elements within the judiciary" aimed at silencing members of the NPP.
He condemned in the strongest terms what he described as the use of intimidation and harassment to suppress opposition voices.
The NPP flagbearer issued a warning to state officials involved in what he characterised as abuse of power, declaring that they would eventually be held accountable.
"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 declared.
Dr Bawumia urged supporters of the NPP across the country to remain resolute despite what he described as intimidation from the government.
"We fought hard for this democracy, and as a party, we cannot surrender it to intimidation from those who possess temporary power today," he said, while encouraging party faithful to continue holding the government accountable to its promises through lawful and democratic means.
