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Prince Akyereko writes: The Arrest of Abronye and Others Raises Serious Questions About Political Freedom in Ghana

The growing reports of unlawful arrests and political intimidation against members and supporters of the New Patriotic Party raise serious concerns about the state of democracy, justice, and constitutional governance in Ghana. In every democratic society, political differences should be resolved through dialogue, elections, and the rule of law, not through fear, intimidation, or selective enforcement of state power.
Democracy thrives when citizens are free to express their political opinions without harassment. Supporters of any political party, whether the ruling government or opposition, deserve equal protection under the law. The constitution of Ghana guarantees freedom of association, freedom of speech, and protection from arbitrary arrest. Any attempt to undermine these rights weakens public trust in national institutions and threatens the democratic progress the country has worked hard to build over the years.
Recent incidents, including the arrest of Kwame Baffoe Abronye, popularly known as Abronye, have intensified public debate about whether state institutions are being used to target political opponents. Many citizens and observers believe such actions create the perception of political intimidation and selective justice, especially when opposition voices appear to face aggressive enforcement measures while others are treated differently. Regardless of political affiliation, every Ghanaian deserves fair treatment, due process, and the presumption of innocence under the law.
It is important to emphasize that law enforcement agencies have a constitutional duty to maintain peace and security. However, that responsibility must always be exercised professionally, fairly, and without political bias. Arrests should be based on credible evidence and due process, not on political affiliation or public opinion. When citizens begin to perceive state institutions as tools for political persecution, it creates division, fear, and instability within society.
Political intolerance has no place in a modern democracy. Ghana has long been admired across Africa for its peaceful elections and democratic transitions of power. Preserving that reputation requires leaders, security agencies, civil society organizations, and citizens to uphold justice, accountability, and human rights at all times. Selective justice or politically motivated actions only deepen polarization and undermine national unity.
The call for an end to unlawful arrests is not merely a partisan issue; it is a national issue. Today it may affect one political group, but tomorrow it could affect another. The protection of democratic freedoms must therefore be defended consistently, regardless of political affiliation. Justice must never be seen as serving one side while targeting another.
Ghana’s democracy is strongest when all voices are respected, when the law applies equally to everyone, and when political competition remains peaceful and issue based. Any abuse of power against citizens for their political beliefs must be condemned by all who believe in democracy and national development.

The unlawful arrest and intimidation of NPP members must stop. Ghana deserves a political environment built on fairness, freedom, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
Prince Akyereko is a Senior Manager, Data Analytics and Insights for TD Bank Group and NPP Canada First Vice Chairman

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