Accra: Former Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the Suame Municipality, Maxwell Ofosu Boakye, has accused President John Dramani Mahama and the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) of applying double standards in their approach to political commentary and freedom of expression. Ofosu Boakye claims the Mahama administration, which once benefited from a culture of strong political discourse, now allegedly uses state security to suppress critics.
According to Ghana Web, Ofosu Boakye made these remarks during an interview with Samuel Kojo Brace on JoyNews's AM show, reacting to the New Patriotic Party's (NPP) recent 'Democracy Under Attack' demonstration. The demonstration aimed to highlight perceived threats to freedom of expression and democratic rights under Mahama's administration. These concerns echo previous statements by former Vice President and NPP flagbearer Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who argued that Ghana's democratic credentials were being compromised.
Ofosu Boakye contends that the government cannot enjoy the benefits of aggressive political commentary when in opposition and then suppress similar expressions while in power. He cited US-based Ghanaian political commentator Kevin Ekow Baidoo Taylor as an example of this alleged double standard, questioning why the government treats Taylor differently from political opponents facing legal challenges.
The NPP's concerns revolve around what they describe as a 'culture of silence' and the alleged weaponisation of state institutions. Ofosu Boakye emphasized that the NPP's stance is not a call for irresponsible speech but for the protection of democratic space, allowing citizens to critique public officials and governance. He urged the Mahama administration to refrain from using state institutions against political opponents and critics, advocating for a more open democratic environment.
The NPP remains worried about the growing controversies surrounding arrests and alleged intimidation of political actors, viewing them as detrimental to Ghana's democratic culture. However, government supporters argue that lawful enforcement of regulations should not be seen as an attack on democracy.