Accra: The New Patriotic Party (NPP) says it will defend its members against what it alleges is political persecution by the Government. The party has expressed its intention to oppose any attempts that it perceives as aimed at intimidating or silencing members of the political opposition. This declaration was made by Mr. Salam Mustapha, National Youth Organiser of the NPP, during the party's 'Democracy Under Attack' demonstration in Accra on Thursday.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Mustapha alleged that the Government was using state institutions to target members of the opposition rather than addressing the country's economic challenges. He clarified that while the party does not oppose state institutions holding individuals accountable, it stands against what it views as persecution. "As a political entity, we will defend our members. We will not allow this Government to have its way in cowing our members into submission," he stated.
The demonstration was organized by the NPP to raise concerns about governance, constitutional rights, and the functioning of democratic institutions. Mr. Mustapha also claimed that the removal of the immediate former Chief Justice had undermined the independence of the Judiciary, instilling fear within the justice system. He argued that targeting political activists for their views poses a risk to other groups, including the media, if left unchallenged.
Mr. Mustapha emphasized the importance of public vigilance, stating, "Strange things are happening to our democracy." He reminded that Ghanaians voted with expectations of economic improvement, not political persecution. The NPP, he added, would persist in opposing what it describes as tyranny, dictatorship, and demagoguery.
Mr. Faisal Ibrahim Cisse, NPP Chairman for the Klottey Korle Constituency, also voiced concerns over increasing arrests related to comments made on social media and public platforms. He suggested that some citizens had been detained without due process, highlighting that freedom of expression is a constitutional right. Mr. Cisse advocated for individuals who feel defamed to seek civil redress rather than through criminal arrests. He called on the Government to uphold democratic principles and apply the law impartially, regardless of political affiliations.