The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has accused the government of engaging in arbitrary arrests and suppressing dissent, warning that such actions threaten Ghana’s democratic foundations and constitutional order.
Addressing a press conference on April 15, the party’s General Secretary, Justin Kodua Frimpong, described recent developments as “disturbing, arbitrary, and unconscionable,” alleging a pattern of harassment targeting critics of the administration.
“We have invited you here this morning to draw the attention of the good people of Ghana to certain disturbing… developments under this government.” - Justin Kodua Frimpong
According to the NPP, incidents of arrests and detentions began early in 2025 but have worsened over time. Mr. Kodua Frimpong claimed the government is increasingly resorting to intimidation rather than addressing national challenges.
“In the early days… we witnessed a pattern—harassment, arrests, and detentions of our members under questionable circumstances,” he said, adding that the party initially exercised restraint.
He argued that the situation has escalated into what he described as a deliberate attempt to silence dissent, warning that “critics of the government are being singled out, arrested, detained, and hurriedly dragged before the courts.”
Constitutional Rights Under Threat
The NPP General Secretary referenced the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, particularly provisions guaranteeing freedom of speech, insisting these rights must not be undermined.
“Freedom of speech and expression… are not privileges to be granted at the pleasure of government—they are rights.” - Justin Kodua Frimpong
He cited cases involving party members and commentators, including the reported detention of a local communications officer, as examples of what he termed violations of fundamental rights.
Accusations of Selective Justice
Mr. Kodua Frimpong also accused the police of bias, suggesting that law enforcement is selectively targeting critics while ignoring similar conduct from individuals aligned with the ruling party.
“That is not law enforcement—that is selective justice,” he said, directing criticism at the leadership of the Ghana Police Service.
He argued that the Inspector-General of Police must act with neutrality, emphasizing that the office serves the state rather than any political party.
Beyond law enforcement, the NPP raised concerns about the judiciary, alleging that some judges are contributing to what it sees as a culture of intimidation.
“There is a growing perception that certain judges have reduced themselves to instruments of intimidation,” Mr. Kodua Frimpong said, cautioning against what he described as the emergence of “remand judges.”
He called on the judiciary to uphold its role as the guardian of justice and constitutional order.
Government Performance and Political Warning
The opposition also linked the alleged crackdown to what it described as unmet government promises on jobs, living conditions, and key economic sectors.
“There is a clear gap between what was promised and what is being delivered,” he stated, accusing the administration of diverting attention from governance challenges.
He issued a political warning, noting that “power is not permanent” and that accountability would come in future electoral cycles.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Kodua Frimpong urged the media, civil society, and religious leaders to speak out against what he described as democratic backsliding.
“The Constitution must be respected. The rule of law must prevail,” he said, warning against any return to “fear, intimidation, and a culture of silence.”
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