Freddie Blay Hospitalised After Blood Pressure Spike in Police Custody

Former National Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Freddie Blay, has been rushed to hospital under emergency conditions after reportedly suffering a sharp rise in blood pressure while in police custody.

Sources close to the veteran politician confirmed on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, that he was taken to an undisclosed medical facility for urgent treatment after his condition became critical.

His hospitalisation follows his remand by the Akropong Circuit Court on Monday in connection with a land dispute at Kitase.

The case involves allegations of unlawful demolition linked to a parcel of land Mr. Blay is said to have acquired in 1994. Prosecutors claim he ordered the demolition of a building under construction on the disputed property.

Police further indicated that a warrant for his arrest was issued in April 2025 after he allegedly failed to honour multiple invitations to assist with investigations and did not appear for a scheduled court hearing.

An aide to Mr. Blay attributed his sudden health condition to the stress of his arrest and detention, while maintaining that he is innocent of the charges.

The defence team has rejected the prosecution’s claims, arguing that no structure was demolished. Instead, they say Mr. Blay only authorised the clearing of an undeveloped plot in January 2026 to remove a potential breeding ground for dangerous reptiles.

They also insist the matter is civil in nature, pointing out that a previous High Court ruling in Koforidua is currently under appeal.

It is not yet clear whether his legal team will seek emergency bail on health grounds ahead of his next court appearance scheduled for April 9, 2026.