NPP Marches in Accra, Accuses Government of Weakening Ghana’s Democracy

Ghana’s opposition New Patriotic Party has taken to the streets of Accra to protest what it describes as growing threats to democratic governance, freedom of expression and the fair treatment of political opponents.

Hundreds of NPP supporters joined party executives and Members of Parliament in the demonstration, wearing red and black as they marched through the capital. The protesters submitted petitions to the Supreme Court, Parliament and the Presidency.

The demonstration was organised under the theme “Democracy Under Attack.” It was held one year after a helicopter crash that claimed eight lives, including those of government officials.

According to the NPP, a series of arrests, court decisions and actions involving prominent opposition figures have created concerns about the strength and independence of Ghana’s democratic institutions.

The party also cited the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo as one of the developments that had heightened its concerns about the country’s governance and justice systems.

Another issue raised by the opposition was the Court of Appeal’s decision to acquit former Microfinance and Small Loans Centre Chief Executive Officer Sedina Tamakloe-Attionu.

Tamakloe-Attionu had previously received a 10-year prison sentence. However, the Court of Appeal overturned the conviction after ruling that the prosecution had failed to prove its case.

The NPP criticised the outcome, claiming that it reflected unequal treatment within the justice system.

Party officials also accused state authorities of using security agencies to intimidate opposition members. They further alleged that prosecutions involving social media users accused of publishing offensive or false information were restricting freedom of expression.

The government has rejected the opposition’s claims and maintained that it remains committed to constitutional governance and the rule of law.

Government officials have argued that security agencies are carrying out their lawful responsibilities and enforcing existing laws to preserve public order.

The latest march follows previous demonstrations organised by the NPP over issues including the removal of former Chief Justice Gertrude Torkornoo and the arrest of one of the party’s regional leaders.

The opposition says its protests are intended to defend democratic accountability and draw public attention to what it considers a pattern of political intimidation and institutional pressure.