“Ghana’s Democracy Under Attack as Free Speech ‘Sacrificed for Political Convenience’ – Bawumia

Flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on party communicators to remain resolute and defend democratic principles, citing what he described as growing intimidation under the administration of John Dramani Mahama.

Dr. Bawumia made the remarks on Saturday, April 18, 2026, when a delegation of NPP executives from the Bono Region paid him a visit at his residence to express appreciation for his support following the arrest and detention of party member Abubakar Yakubu, popularly known as Baba Amando.

He criticised what he alleged to be the use of state security institutions to suppress dissent and limit free expression.

“Ghana’s democratic credentials are under attack. Freedom of expression is being sacrificed for political convenience,” he said.

Dr. Bawumia urged party communicators to remain bold and vocal, stressing that they should not be intimidated.

“The intimidation can never break us,” he added, encouraging members to stay fact-based in their messaging while holding government accountable.

The party’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, who led the delegation, thanked Dr. Bawumia for his continued support and assured him that party communicators would remain steadfast despite the challenges.

The NPP has also announced plans to stage a demonstration in Sunyani on Wednesday, April 22, under the theme “Yensuro Ahunahuna Demo,” to protest what it describes as government-sponsored attacks on free speech and democratic values.