Akim Oda MP condemns the arrest of Abronye DC

The arrest of Kwame Baffoe, popularly known as Abronye DC and Bono Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has triggered heated debate within Ghana’s political landscape.

Abronye was detained after alleging that former President John Dramani Mahama was plotting a coup in collaboration with Al Qaeda militants.

Police investigations later described the claims as false and capable of inciting public disorder, leading to charges of publishing false news and offensive conduct likely to cause a breach of peace.

The development has drawn mixed reactions. Akwesi Acquah, Member of Parliament for Akim Oda, questioned the arrest’s timing and motive, labeling it politically driven.

He called on the President to ensure that security agencies are not used to silence dissent.

“National security is important, but so too is freedom of speech. Ghana’s democracy is being tested on whether it can strike a balance between peace and civil liberties,” Mr. Acquah noted.

The NPP leadership has also rallied behind Abronye DC. Henry Salam Mustapha, the party’s National Youth Organizer, expressed dissatisfaction with the police’s handling of the matter, insisting the arrest undermines free expression.

Observers say the case underscores the tension between safeguarding stability and protecting political freedoms, a recurring theme in Ghana’s democratic journey.