The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has escalated its criticism of the Mahama administration, formally petitioning members of Ghana’s diplomatic corps to intervene in what it describes as a systematic campaign of political persecution. In a comprehensive statement issued in Accra, the opposition party has raised serious concerns about the suppression of dissent, erosion of democratic norms, and the weaponisation of state institutions against political opponents, journalists, and critics.
A Culture of Intimidation and the Criminalisation of Free Speech
The NPP’s petition paints a disturbing picture of Ghana’s political landscape, arguing that under President John Dramani Mahama, the country is witnessing a dangerous shift—one that threatens its hard-won democratic credentials. The party claims that opposition figures, activists, and independent voices are increasingly subjected to arbitrary arrests, baseless prosecutions, and relentless intimidation, creating an environment where free expression is under siege.
In its detailed submission, the NPP warns that this pattern of repression is fostering a “culture of silence”—one where citizens hesitate to voice dissent for fear of legal repercussions, social ostracisation, or physical harm. The party asserts that Ghana’s reputation as a regional leader in democracy and stability is now at grave risk, with fundamental rights being systematically undermined.
Targeting of Political Opponents and Journalists
Central to the NPP’s allegations is the accusation that state institutions—particularly the police, judiciary, and intelligence services—are being deployed as tools of political persecution. The party argues that opposition members are disproportionately targeted, while government-aligned figures often evade accountability for similar offences.
One high-profile case cited in the petition is that of Kwame Baffoe (popularly known as Abronye DC), the NPP’s Regional Chairman for the Ashanti Region. According to the statement, Baffoe was arrested and charged following critical remarks he made about a judge, a move the party describes as a blatant attempt to silence dissent. Despite his lack of criminal record, Baffoe was denied bail, further illustrating what the NPP calls the criminalisation of free speech.
The petition also highlights the broader trend of selective justice, where opposition figures face swift investigations and harsh penalties, while government supporters often escape consequences for comparable actions. This double standard, the NPP argues, undermines the rule of law and erodes public trust in Ghana’s justice system.
The Repeal of Criminal Libel and Its Undermining
Ghana’s 2001 repeal of criminal libel laws under former President John Agyekum Kufuor was hailed as a landmark reform, significantly strengthening press freedom and democratic expression. However, the NPP contends that the current administration has found alternative means to penalise critics, effectively reversing decades of progress.
The party claims that while formal libel laws no longer exist, the government has exploited other legal mechanisms—such as defamation, sedition, and public order offences—to target journalists and opposition figures. This creative use of the law, the NPP warns, chills free speech and undermines Ghana’s commitment to democratic values.
Judicial Independence Under Threat
Another critical concern raised in the petition is the alleged politicisation of the judiciary, particularly following the removal of Chief Justice Gertrude Araba Esaaba Sackey Torkornoo. The NPP argues that this high-profile dismissal has further eroded public confidence in Ghana’s courts, with many citizens now questioning whether judges can render impartial rulings in politically sensitive cases.
The party warns that if judicial independence continues to weaken, Ghana risks losing one of its most vital democratic safeguards, leaving citizens vulnerable to arbitrary justice and political manipulation.
A Call for International Scrutiny and Intervention
In light of these deepening concerns, the NPP has urged the diplomatic community, development partners, and human rights organisations to actively monitor Ghana’s political situation. The party is seeking international pressure to halt the persecution of dissenters, restore judicial impartiality, and ensure that Ghana’s democratic institutions remain robust and resilient.
The petition explicitly calls on diplomats to:
– Publicly condemn the suppression of free speech and the weaponisation of state institutions.
– Engage the government in constructive dialogue to address alleged abuses of power.
– Support independent investigations into cases of political persecution, including the treatment of opposition figures and journalists.
– Advocate for the protection of democratic norms, ensuring that Ghana does not regress in its human rights and press freedom commitments.
A Warning to Ghana’s Democratic Future
The NPP’s petition serves as a serious wake-up call, warning that without urgent intervention, Ghana could slip into authoritarianism—a fate that would betray the sacrifices of past generations who fought for democracy. The party’s detailed allegations, backed by specific cases and legal concerns, paint a concerning picture of a nation at a crossroads.
As the international community watches closely, the future of Ghana’s democracy may well hinge on whether these warnings are heeded—and whether accountability is restored before it is too late.