The First Vice Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Ekumfi Constituency, Mustapha Ahmed Anderson, has criticised the government over what he describes as the harassment of citizens and critics by security personnel, insisting that democracy must guarantee every citizen the freedom to express their views without intimidation.
According to him, the use of security agencies to intimidate or harass individuals who speak against the government is inconsistent with the principles of democratic governance.
“Democracy is not about harassing those who speak,” Mr Anderson said, while urging the government to respect the fundamental rights and freedoms of Ghanaians.
He also disclosed that the NPP had undertaken a critical assessment of its performance following its defeat in the 2024 general elections and had learnt important lessons from the outcome.
Mr Anderson stressed that unity remains one of the most important factors required to reposition the party and strengthen its chances of winning the 2028 general elections.
His remarks were made during the Central Regional NPP Executive Elections held at Mankessim in the Mfantseman Constituency.
He commended the organisers, electoral officers, security personnel, delegates, aspirants and party supporters for what he described as their discipline and commitment towards ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
According to him, the conduct of the elections demonstrated transparency, fairness and credibility, and provided a strong indication of the party’s preparedness to regroup and work towards victory in 2028.
Mr Anderson also criticised the government over what he described as its failure to fulfil some of its campaign promises, particularly those relating to cocoa farmers.
He expressed concern about the current economic difficulties facing cocoa farmers, arguing that government policies and promises had not translated into the expected relief for producers.
He cited the current cocoa price, which he said was around GH¢2,500 per bag, as an indication of the challenges confronting farmers.
The NPP First Vice Chairman further took aim at the government’s flagship 24-hour economy policy, arguing that the initiative had not delivered the economic transformation promised to Ghanaians.
He claimed that the policy had instead shifted towards the construction of what he described as “24-hour markets”.
“You promised a 24-hour economy, not 24-hour markets,” Mr Anderson stressed.
He said the government must prioritise policies that create jobs, expand economic opportunities and improve living conditions rather than focus on initiatives that, in his view, fall short of the original promise made to the electorate.
Mr Anderson called on NPP members to remain united, disciplined and focused as the party begins preparations for the 2028 elections.
