The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has sharply criticized the government of President John Dramani Mahama, accusing it of becoming increasingly intolerant towards political dissent. The party specifically pointed to the recent arrest of Abubakar Yakubu, the Sunyani East Communication Officer of the NPP, as evidence of what they see as a pattern of suppression against those who challenge the government.
Yakubu, also known as Baba Amando, was arrested on Monday, April 13, 2026, following accusations of offensive conduct, spreading false information, and inciting fear among the public. He has been remanded in custody for two weeks as investigations continue.
Reacting to the incident, NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong condemned the arrest and what he described as the Mahama administration’s growing intolerance for criticism. According to Frimpong, President Mahama’s government has increasingly resorted to silencing opposition voices, undermining the democratic principles of free speech and constitutional rights in Ghana.
“The NDC government, under President Mahama, has become so intolerant that it no longer tolerates divergent views or criticism,” Frimpong stated during an interview on April 15, 2026. “This is a clear sign of the administration’s disregard for democratic norms. Ghana is supposed to be a constitutional democracy, but this government seems to be moving away from those values.”
Frimpong further emphasized that, in stark contrast, the NPP government under President Akufo-Addo was far more tolerant of political criticism, even in the face of harsh verbal attacks from opposition figures. “During the previous administration, when Mahama and his party were in power, there were numerous instances of harsh criticism and personal attacks. But we remained tolerant because we understood the importance of free speech and the rule of law,” he added.
The NPP’s criticism comes at a time when political tensions in the country appear to be escalating. Opposition parties and civil society groups have increasingly raised concerns over what they see as a crackdown on dissenting voices, with several individuals facing legal action for their outspoken criticism of the government.
