NPP Claims Presidency Is Behind Arrests and Detention of Opposition Members

The New Patriotic Party has accused the Presidency of masterminding what it describes as politically motivated arrests and detentions targeting members of the opposition party.

In a statement issued by the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, the NPP expressed shock, concern, and disappointment over the decision by the Adenta Circuit Court to remand the party’s Bono Regional Chairman, Kwame Baffoe, also known as Abronye DC, into the custody of the National Investigations Bureau pending the determination of his case.

The party argued that the court’s decision could potentially keep Abronye DC in detention for an extended period if the legal proceedings drag on for several months or longer.

According to the statement, the NPP views the development not only as an attack on one individual but also as a threat to freedom of expression, justice, and democratic rights in Ghana.

The party further stated that it would oppose the development through lawful and democratic means.

The statement also directly accused the Presidency of being behind the arrests and prosecutions involving opposition figures.

According to the NPP, the developments are not isolated actions by prosecutors or judges but form part of what it described as a coordinated political agenda originating from the highest levels of government.

The party claimed there is a growing pattern of harassment against its officials and communicators, alleging that opposition members are being targeted because of their political affiliation.

The NPP further alleged that the Presidency’s influence could be seen throughout what it described as attempts to intimidate opposition voices.

Meanwhile, former Vice President and the NPP’s 2024 presidential candidate, Mahamudu Bawumia, has also criticised the governing National Democratic Congress over what he described as politically motivated intimidation and suppression of free speech.

In a statement released on Wednesday, May 13, Dr Bawumia said he was deeply worried about what he termed a continuous assault on the rights of NPP officers, activists, and supporters since the NDC assumed office on January 7, 2025.

He alleged that arrests, detentions, and what he described as excessive bail conditions have become increasingly common under the current administration.

Dr Bawumia referenced the arrest and later release of social media commentator David Essandoh over comments concerning the return of “dumsor,” as well as the detention of Abronye DC.

According to him, these actions point to what he described as an improper collaboration between the Executive, investigative bodies, and some individuals within the judiciary aimed at intimidating members of the opposition.

He warned that such actions could undermine democratic freedoms and reverse gains made in Ghana’s democratic development.

The former Vice President also cautioned that public officials involved in what he characterised as abuses of state power would eventually be held accountable.

He further encouraged NPP supporters to remain steadfast and continue holding the government accountable while resisting intimidation and political pressure.