The presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has accused the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government of weakening democratic principles and suppressing free expression through what he described as the intimidation and targeting of opposition members.
In a statement released in Accra on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Ghana’s former Vice President expressed deep concern over what he called a continuous attack on the rights of NPP executives, activists, and supporters since the NDC administration took office on January 7, 2025.
Dr Bawumia argued that the arrests, detentions, and what he described as excessive bail conditions imposed on some party members point to a troubling pattern that could damage Ghana’s democratic reputation.
He referenced the recent detention of social media commentator David Essandoh, who had criticised the return of “dumsor” online, as well as the incarceration of NPP Bono Regional Chairman Kwame Baffoe Abronye, describing both incidents as politically driven acts of intimidation.
According to him, such actions threaten freedom of speech and risk reversing Ghana’s democratic progress.
The NPP flagbearer also alleged that there was coordinated cooperation between the Executive branch, state investigative bodies, and certain individuals within the judiciary aimed at silencing opposition voices.
He strongly criticised what he sees as the use of state institutions to harass and intimidate political opponents.
Warning over accountability
Dr Bawumia further cautioned public officials whom he accused of participating in abuses of state power, stating that they would eventually be called to account for their actions.
He declared that those involved in what he termed an “unholy enterprise” should expect a future day of accountability.
Message to party supporters
The former Vice President also called on NPP members and supporters nationwide to remain steadfast despite what he described as growing intimidation by the government.
He reminded party faithful that significant sacrifices were made to build Ghana’s democracy and stressed that the party would not allow it to be undermined by those temporarily in authority.
Dr Bawumia additionally encouraged supporters to continue demanding accountability from the government through lawful and democratic processes.