Former New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has called for the discontinuation of the prosecution of a National Democratic Congress (NDC) organiser who is facing charges over alleged false publications and offensive comments made about him.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, Bawumia stated that he neither filed a complaint nor authorised any legal action against the NDC organiser from Agona West, who is currently being prosecuted over comments allegedly made about him.
"The attention of the Office of Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has been drawn to the arrest and arraignment of an organiser of the National Democratic Congress in Agona West, who is being prosecuted for allegedly publishing false news and making offensive comments about Dr. Bawumia," the statement read.
Bawumia stressed that he has not lodged any complaint against the individual or any other Ghanaian and does not support the arrest or prosecution of anyone in his name over matters relating to speech.
He noted that although he has been subjected to insults and false allegations throughout his public life, he has consistently chosen not to respond by relying on the coercive powers of the state.
"Dr. Bawumia has been the subject of insults and falsehoods throughout his public life. He has never responded with the instruments of state power, and he will not begin now," the statement said.
According to him, offensive speech should be countered with more speech, while falsehoods should be addressed through truth rather than arrests, court proceedings or restrictive bail conditions imposed on ordinary citizens.
The former Vice President therefore appealed to the Ghana Police Service and the Attorney-General to discontinue the prosecution and any similar actions purportedly being undertaken on his behalf. He also called for the immediate release of the accused to enable him to return to his family and livelihood.
Dr. Bawumia argued that Ghana's democracy is strengthened when citizens, including political opponents, are free to express their views without fear of intimidation.
He further said he has forgiven the young man involved in the case, wished him well, and urged political actors to focus on addressing issues that affect the lives of Ghanaians rather than engaging in divisive political battles.
