The Youth Wing of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Savannah Region has issued a strong statement condemning the recent arrests and detention of social commentators Fante Comedy, Yayra, and Sir Obama Pokuase, describing the actions as a blatant abuse of state power and a serious threat to Ghana’s democratic values.
In a press release signed by Regional Youth Organizer Raphael Mahama Akati on Wednesday, 13th August, 2025, the NPP Youth Wing accused the ruling NDC government of orchestrating politically motivated arrests in what it termed a “witch-hunting expedition” targeting opposition voices. The group described the arrests as being carried out in a “gangster-style” manner, in violation of constitutional rights and due process.
“This is not just an abuse of power,” the statement said. “It is a betrayal of the trust Ghanaians placed in our institutions of state and a direct threat to the freedoms we hold dear.”
The statement also criticized the timing of the arrests, which come amid national mourning following the recent helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight public officials, including Members of Parliament. According to the Youth Wing, the government should have used this moment of collective grief to foster unity, rather than deepen political divisions.
Calling for the immediate release of the three detainees, the NPP Youth Wing stressed that the party stands for rule of law and human dignity. “The NPP is a law-abiding organization and will only support lawful processes that respect the rights and freedoms enshrined in our Constitution,” the statement added.
Referencing the leadership of former President Akufo-Addo, the group highlighted past efforts to safeguard press freedom and civil liberties, particularly the repeal of criminal libel laws, contrasting it with what it views as increasing authoritarian tendencies under the current NDC administration.
“We will not be silenced. We will continue to speak out against injustice and demand accountability,” the release concluded, promising that the NDC government’s actions will be held to account under a future NPP administration.
The call for justice adds to growing public discourse around political freedoms and the conduct of security agencies ahead of Ghana’s next general elections.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
