Bawumia distances himself from prosecution of NDC organiser, calls for case to be dropped

Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) Presidential Candidate, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has called for the prosecution of a National Democratic Congress (NDC) organiser from Agona West to be discontinued.

The NDC Organizer was arrested and arraigned over alleged false publications and offensive comments made about Dr. Bawumia.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dr. Bawumia said he had no involvement in the arrest or prosecution, insisting that he neither lodged a complaint nor authorised anyone to act on his behalf.

“The attention of the Office of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been drawn to the arrest and arraignment of an organiser of the National Democratic Congress in Agona West,” the statement said.

Dr. Bawumia stressed that freedom of expression should be protected, even when opinions expressed are offensive or inaccurate. He maintained that he does not believe criminal prosecution is the appropriate response to criticism directed at public figures.

Recalling his own experience in politics, he said he has faced years of insults, misrepresentations and false accusations without seeking the intervention of law enforcement agencies.

“The answer to offensive speech is better speech, and the answer to falsehood is truth, not handcuffs, courtrooms, and crushing bail conditions imposed on ordinary Ghanaians,” he stated.

He consequently urged the Police and the Attorney-General to halt the ongoing prosecution and ensure the immediate release of the accused, saying the young man should be allowed to reunite with his family and continue his daily life.

Dr. Bawumia also argued that Ghana’s democratic credentials are enhanced when citizens, including those with opposing political views, can express themselves freely without fear of intimidation or persecution.

He added that he had forgiven the accused and wished him well, while encouraging political leaders and their supporters to prioritise discussions on issues affecting the lives of Ghanaians rather than engaging in personal attacks.

The statement was signed by the Communications Directorate of the Office of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.