“Bawumia is Crossing the Line” – NDC’s Mahdi Gibril Says Free Speech Must Not Incite Disorder
By Maurice Otoo
Mahdi Gibril, Director of Elections and IT for the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia over recent comments he believes risk inflaming political tensions in the country.
Speaking on the issue on the Kessben Maakye show, Gibril questioned why some political actors are defending comments he says could incite unrest under the guise of freedom of speech.
“Freedom of speech does not warrant defamation,” he stressed, insisting that political leaders must speak responsibly, especially when seeking higher office.
According to him, Ghana’s democracy comprises both politicians and ordinary citizens who deserve peace and stability, not unnecessary political tension.
“I feel ashamed for Bawumia to go on this tangent,” he said, accusing some people of deliberately raising needless controversies.
Gibril further alleged that Dr. Bawumia’s recent posture amounts to political hypocrisy, arguing that similar comments by others in the past attracted swift punishment.
“Where was he when Bobi Ansah and Kweku Anyidoho were arrested?” he questioned.
He cited the case of former presidential aide Kweku Anyidoho, who was arrested after warning that history could repeat itself if certain national concerns were ignored.
“Anyidoho said if care were not taken, there would be a civil revolt, and history would repeat itself. He was arrested, and that is the same thing Bawumia has said,” Gibril argued.
The NDC official also questioned whether Dr. Bawumia would be comfortable with a political environment where anyone could make inflammatory comments and “go scot-free.”
He further referenced past demonstrations over the non-use of the Legon Hospital during the COVID-19 period, asking why reactions to political statements appear inconsistent depending on who is involved.
Gibril maintained that while free speech remains a cornerstone of democracy, it should not be abused to create fear, provoke supporters, or undermine national stability.
