The National Youth Organiser of the New Patriotic Party, Salam Mustapha has accused the government of subjecting opposition members to intimidation and political persecution across the country. He said the party could no longer remain silent while its member faced increasing pressure under the current administration.
Speaking at the residence of the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Mustapha stated that many supporters of the NPP live in fear and uncertainty. According to him, party members increasingly feel vulnerable because they do not know when they could be targets by state authorities.
He argued that the situation pointed to what he describes as the gradual return of a culture of silence within the country’s political space. In his view, democratic governance weakens when citizens become afraid to openly associate with a political tradition of their choice.
Mustapha also questioned the handling of legal cases involving member, Abronye. He contended that prolonged detention and remand decisions against party supporters have raise concerns about fairness and equal justice.
“For a judge, in all intents and purposes, to look into the eyes of a fellow man and say, ‘go and lie in detention or remand until your case is determined’ beats any reasonable imagination.”
Salam Mustapha
He further argued that such developments contradict the democratic values Ghana’s forebearers fought to establish. From his perspective, the opposition has a duty to resist any actions that, in his estimation, undermine political freedom and civil liberties.
The NPP Youth Organiser subsequently cautioned the government against the continuous intimidation of party members. He explained that the leadership of the party, including its flagbearer and parliamentary caucus, will respond firmly to the situation.
“As a party, we will not sit by and allow this government to continue to harass, molest, intimidate our members. We are serving this notice to government that the intimidation must end, and we are damn serious about it.”
Salam Mustapha
He added that any further escalation of tensions would carry consequences for which the government would bear responsibility. He also stressed that the administration has been entrusted with a national mandate that requires fairness, tolerance, and respect for political opposition.
NPP Warns Government Over Detention, Mounting Political Tensions
Salam Mustapha stated that the NPP possesses a strong and organised membership structure across the country. He indicated that the party’s internal records show significant support capable of sustaining a coordinated political response.
According to him, the concerns raised by the party has not received the necessary attention from authorities. He cautioned that prolonged dissatisfaction among supporters could heighten political tensions and affect national stability.
He also called for the release of a detained member Abronye He warned that the party would strongly react should any harm happen.
“We are sending this warning and caution to government to release Abronye. Otherwise, should anything happen to Abronye in custody, you have us to contend with.”
Salam Mustapha
Mustapha further argued that the government stands to benefit from constructive engagement with the opposition. In his view, a healthy democratic system depends on tolerance, dialogue, and respect between governing authorities and opposition parties.
He maintained that the NPP remains prepared to rally its youth wing and grassroot supporters if circumstances deteriorate further. He added that the party would continue to defend its members against political intimidation and unfair treatment.
READ ALSO: Supreme Court Allows 14 CSOs to Join Suit Challenging OSP’s Prosecutorial Powers
