New Patriotic Party (NPP) flagbearer and former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called for the discontinuation of prosecutions undertaken in his name, stating that he has neither lodged any complaint nor sanctioned the prosecution of any Ghanaian over speech-related offences.
The call follows the arrest and arraignment of an organiser of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Agona West, who is being prosecuted for allegedly publishing false news and making offensive comments about Dr. Bawumia.
In a statement from his Communications Directorate, Dr. Bawumia clarified that he does not desire, and will not endorse, the arrest or prosecution of any citizen in his name for expressing their views.
The statement noted that Dr. Bawumia has been subjected to insults and falsehoods throughout his public life but has never responded by using state power against his critics.
It added that his belief remains that “the answer to offensive speech is better speech, and the answer to falsehood is truth,” rather than arrests, court processes and stringent bail conditions imposed on ordinary Ghanaians.
Dr. Bawumia has therefore urged the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue the case involving the Agona West NDC organiser, as well as any similar actions purportedly undertaken on his behalf, and to allow the accused to return to his family and livelihood.
He further stressed that Ghana’s democracy is strengthened when citizens, including political opponents, can express themselves freely without fear.
Dr. Bawumia said he forgives the young man and called on political actors to channel their energies towards addressing issues that matter to Ghanaians.
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