New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer for the 2028 elections and Former Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue the prosecution of a National Democratic Congress (NDC) organiser in Agona West who is facing charges over alleged false publications and offensive comments against him.
In a statement issued by his office, Dr Bawumia said he was not behind the arrest or prosecution of the young man and stressed that he has never sought to use state institutions against individuals over speech-related matters.
“Dr Bawumia wishes to state, clearly and unequivocally, that he has neither lodged any complaint nor sanctioned any prosecution against this young man or any other citizen,” the statement said.
The former Vice President added that he does not support the arrest or prosecution of any Ghanaian in his name, emphasising his commitment to freedom of expression and open democratic debate.
“His conviction remains that 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,” the statement noted.
Dr Bawumia further explained that he has faced insults and allegations throughout his political career but has never responded by seeking legal action against his critics.
“He has been the subject of insults and falsehoods throughout his public life. He has never responded with the instruments of state power, and he will not begin now,” the statement added.
He therefore appealed to the Police Service and the Attorney-General to end the case and release the organiser to return to his family and livelihood.
The former Vice President also urged political actors to focus their energies on issues affecting Ghanaians rather than personal attacks.
“Ghana’s democracy is strengthened when citizens, including those who oppose us, can speak freely without fear,” Dr Bawumia stated.
He said he forgives the young man and wishes him well, while encouraging all sides of the political divide to promote respectful dialogue.
