NPP Belgium Branch executive raises concerns over freedom of expression in Ghana

The Research and Elections Officer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Belgium Branch, Raphael Godwyll Panford, popularly known as "Raph," has expressed concern over what he describes as a growing trend of arrests and prosecutions involving government critics, opposition politicians, social media commentators and content creators in Ghana.

In a statement on June 9, 2026, the outspoken NPP stalwart and co-founder of United Belgium for Bawumia (UBB) cautioned against what "he believes is the increasing use of state institutions to suppress dissenting political voices and intimidate members of the opposition."

According to him, while democratic societies must ensure that freedom of expression is exercised responsibly, constitutional rights must equally be protected and justice administered fairly and without political interference.

"I do not support politics of insults, character assassination, or the use of abusive and derogatory language against the President of the Republic or any public official. Civility must remain a cornerstone of our democracy.

"However, where there are allegations of wrongdoing, the law must be allowed to take its course through due process and without any appearance of political intimidation," Raph stated.

His comments come amid recent arrests and investigations involving several individuals perceived by sections of the public as critics of the government, including social media influencers, political activists, online commentators, and opposition figures whose public comments have sparked controversy.

Raph argued that while no citizen should be above the law, the frequency and nature of some of the recent arrests have generated concerns among Ghanaians both at home and abroad regarding the state of political freedoms in the country.

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"As democrats, we must be concerned whenever citizens begin to fear expressing their political opinions. Ghana's democracy was built on the principles of free speech, political tolerance, and respect for differing views. These principles must never be sacrificed regardless of which political party is in power," he said.

The Belgium-based political activist noted that members of the Ghanaian diaspora continue to closely monitor political developments back home and remain committed to protecting the country's democratic gains.

Raph specifically referenced the legal challenges facing Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC, the Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, who is currently facing legal proceedings over comments he allegedly made concerning President John Dramani Mahama and First Lady Lordina Mahama.

While stressing that he was not defending any allegedly offensive remarks, Raph maintained that all citizens deserve fair treatment under the law.

"I am not a lawyer and I do not claim to be a legal expert. Nevertheless, I believe every citizen deserves fair treatment under our legal system. Justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. Any perception that judicial or law enforcement institutions are being used as political tools damages public confidence in our democracy," he remarked.

AM

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