Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, the Member of Parliament for Ofoase-Ayirebi and former Minister for Information, has stated that the ruling National Democratic Congress (NDC) government has arrested more than 16 members of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Mr. Oppong Nkrumah made these claims on Joy FM Midday News on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. He alleges these individuals were detained for making social media comments the government found unacceptable.
He stated, "Over sixteen NPP persons have been arrested for simply making comments on social media or posting things on social media that the government finds unpalatable." Mr. Oppong Nkrumah cited the recent arrest and detention of Kwame Baffoe, also known as Abronye DC, the Bono Regional Chairman of the NPP, as an example. He added that Abronye DC was denied bail and has been in detention since the previous Wednesday.
These allegations highlight ongoing political tensions in Ghana regarding freedom of expression and the use of legal means against political opponents. In Ghana's recent history, concerns about the politicization of state institutions, including security and judicial bodies, have surfaced during periods of intense political competition. The ability of citizens and opposition parties to freely critique government actions is a cornerstone of democratic accountability. Data on internet usage and social media engagement in Ghana shows a growing number of citizens using these platforms for political discourse.
Mr. Oppong Nkrumah further accused the government of "using arrest, detention, remand as a tool to suppress voices that they do not feel comfortable with." He believes the intention is to intimidate citizens and silence criticism about unfulfilled campaign promises. The NPP plans to address this situation through public advocacy and legal channels. "We will use the platforms of public advocacy to call that out as well while we do what is necessary through the judicial system," he stated.
The implications of these arrests, if proven, could impact public trust in democratic institutions and raise concerns among international observers about the state of press and speech freedoms. The legal and judicial systems will be closely watched to see how these cases are handled. The government's response to these allegations will be crucial in shaping public perception and the political discourse leading up to future elections.