The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has intensified its criticism of the Mahama administration by submitting separate petitions to the Supreme Court and the Presidency, alleging a growing erosion of democratic governance, judicial independence and political freedoms.
The petitions were presented after the party’s “Democracy Under Attack” demonstration in Accra, where supporters marched to demand what they described as greater respect for the rule of law and constitutional governance.
Speaking at Jubilee House after presenting the petition, Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin said the NPP was compelled to act because of what it sees as a worrying pattern of political intimidation and selective justice.
“We are saying democracy is under attack, and let us all take steps as players in the governance structure to correct it and make Ghana a better place,” he said.
The Minority Leader argued that recent actions involving opposition figures and developments within the judiciary have fuelled concerns about the country’s democratic direction.
He cited the conviction of the NPP’s Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, as one example, questioning the circumstances surrounding the case.
Mr Afenyo-Markin also criticised the removal of the former Chief Justice, claiming it had raised questions about the independence of the judiciary.
Turning to the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), he alleged that opposition members were being subjected to excessive bail conditions.
“EOCO cannot continue to demand properties worth millions of cedis before granting bail to political opponents,” he said.
The Minority Leader further accused the government of failing to fulfil key promises made to Ghanaians, including commitments on employment, the 24-hour economy, electricity tariffs and cocoa prices.
He warned the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) against believing it would remain in office indefinitely.
“Power is transient. Governments change, and those who wield authority today must remember that they will one day account for their actions,” Afenyo-Markin said.
Referring to what he described as an International Monetary Fund (IMF) report indicating financial losses linked to GoldBod transactions, he argued that allegations of financial impropriety should remind public officials that accountability applies to every administration.
The presentation of the petition was briefly delayed after NPP leaders objected to the Presidency assigning Presidential Staffer Nana Yaa Jantuah to receive the document on behalf of President John Dramani Mahama.
Addressing Nana Yaa Jantuah, Afenyo-Markin described the arrangement as inappropriate given the seniority of the NPP delegation.
“Without prejudice to your person, to nominate only you to come amounts to disrespecting us as a political party,” he stated.
The disagreement was later resolved, allowing Nana Yaa Jantuah to officially receive the petition on behalf of the Presidency.
