The New Patriotic Party (NPP), Ghana’s main opposition, has announced plans for a nationwide demonstration next week to protest what it describes as state-sponsored harassment by the Ghana Police Service. The protest is set for Tuesday, September 23, 2025, targeting alleged political bias and intimidation against party members.
National Youth Organiser of the NPP, Salam Mustapha, revealed the decision in a Facebook post on Friday, September 12. He accused the police of carrying out politically motivated arrests and actions against NPP supporters, calling it a return to authoritarian tactics under the current administration.
Background: Arrest of NPP Bono Regional Chairman Abronye DC
The demonstration follows the recent arrest of Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, the NPP’s Bono Regional Chairman. Police detained him on Monday, September 8, after comments he made during a live-stream on Ohia TV. Abronye was charged with offensive conduct likely to breach the peace for allegedly insulting Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohunu.
An Accra Circuit Court remanded Abronye into custody until Friday, September 12 until he got bailed on the 15th of September, 2025. The opposition has decried the arrest as selective persecution, with NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong issuing a statement labeling it as clear evidence of political harassment.
NPP leaders argue that this incident is part of a wider pattern of intimidation targeting the party’s leadership and grassroots members. They claim the police are being used as tools for partisan purposes by the ruling government.
Protest Details and Mobilization
The September 23 demonstration aims to highlight the “systematic harassment” of NPP figures and supporters. Party youth wings have been actively mobilized for what organizers describe as a peaceful protest. NPP expects strong turnout from regional branches and youth groups across Ghana.
The timing gives the party ample opportunity to rally participants nationwide. In addition to the street action, NPP plans to present a petition detailing grievances against police conduct and calling for an end to what they see as biased law enforcement.
Broader Political Context in Ghana
This protest underscores escalating tensions between the opposition and state institutions in Ghana. The NPP, still reeling from its recent electoral loss, is adopting more aggressive tactics to challenge the ruling party’s record on governance, press freedom, and political space.
Analysts see the event as a key move in NPP’s strategy to stay visible and pressure the government. It comes amid concerns from opposition groups about shrinking political freedoms and rising restrictions on activities.
The Ghana Police Service has yet to issue a public response to the harassment claims. Officials reiterate their dedication to impartial, professional policing free from political influence.
As Ghana navigates these political dynamics, the September 23 NPP protest could amplify debates on democracy, law enforcement neutrality, and opposition rights in the country. Stay tuned for updates on protest routes, police preparations, and potential outcomes.