Accra, Ghana — The aspiring National Chairman of the NPP and Former Energy Minister, Hon. Boakye Kyeremateng Agyarko, has issued a sharp critique of President John Mahama’s administration, condemning what he described as the misuse of state security agencies to intimidate political opponents.
In a press release dated May 23, 2026, Agyarko expressed outrage at the recent arrests of leading members of the New Patriotic Party, as well as activists and social media commentators sympathetic to the NPP. He argued that these detentions represent a dangerous attempt to criminalize dissent and muzzle free expression, rights guaranteed under Article 21(1)(a) of the 1992 Constitution.
“The use of Section 208 of the Criminal Code to stifle political debate must stop,” Agyarko declared, insisting that the government’s actions betray democratic principles. He demanded the immediate release of all activists detained for speech-related offenses, or at the very least, a fair and transparent day in court.
His statement comes in the wake of high-profile arrests, including that of Bono Regional NPP Chairman Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, who was charged with false publication and offensive conduct after alleging a plot against Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia. Several other NPP-aligned commentators on social media have also been picked up in recent weeks, sparking concerns about a broader clampdown on opposition voices.
Agyarko accused the Mahama government of diverting attention from Ghana’s pressing economic challenges by targeting critics. “Instead of chasing political opponents, the administration should focus on governance and solving the hardships facing ordinary Ghanaians,” he said. He urged institutions such as the Ghana Police Service, the National Peace Council, and civil society organizations to safeguard liberty and resist attempts to erode democratic rights.
The statement concluded with a rallying call to defend democracy and freedom of speech, ending with: “Long live the NPP! Long live Ghana!”
By situating his critique within the context of recent arrests, Agyarko has amplified growing concerns that the government is weaponizing state institutions against dissent. His intervention adds weight to calls from within the opposition for greater accountability and respect for constitutional freedoms as Ghana heads toward the 2026 elections.
Read full statement below.
