Former Vice President and New Patriotic Party (NPP) 2028 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, has called on the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General’s Office to discontinue the prosecution of an NDC organiser in Agona West who is facing charges over alleged offensive comments made against him.
Dr Bawumia, in a statement issued by his office on Wednesday, July 22, said he had no involvement in the complaint or legal action against the National Democratic Congress (NDC) activist, insisting that he neither requested nor authorised the prosecution.
The former Vice President said he does not support the use of state institutions to respond to criticism or comments made against him, regardless of how offensive they may be.
“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. He does not desire, and will not endorse, the arrest or prosecution of any Ghanaian in his name for speech,” the statement said.
The accused was arrested and arraigned over allegations of publishing false news and making offensive remarks about Dr Bawumia.
According to Dr Bawumia, public figures must be prepared to endure criticism as part of democratic life, adding that he has faced insults and false allegations throughout his political career without seeking legal action against individuals.
“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 added.
He subsequently appealed to the Police Service and the Attorney-General to withdraw the case and any other similar actions allegedly initiated in his name.
“He therefore respectfully calls on the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue this prosecution and any similar actions purportedly undertaken on his behalf, and to release the young man to return to his family and his livelihood,” the statement said.
Dr Bawumia further argued that Ghana’s democracy thrives when citizens, including political opponents, can express their views freely without fear of intimidation or prosecution.
He added that he had forgiven the accused and encouraged political actors to shift attention from personal attacks to issues affecting the welfare of Ghanaians.
“Dr. Bawumia forgives the young man, wishes him well, and urges all political actors to channel their energies toward the issues that matter to the Ghanaian people,” the statement concluded.
