NPP Won't Be Silenced, Says Afenyo-Markin as Opposition Vows Accountability Push

The opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) has signalled it will not be cowed by what its Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin described as government intimidation tactics, as the party seeks to regroup following its defeat in the 2024 general election.

Speaking at the NPP's National Delegates Congress in Kumasi on Saturday, 3 October, Mr Afenyo-Markin alleged that the Mahama administration is attempting to silence critics through arrests and imprisonment. He contrasted this with the previous Akufo-Addo government, which he said endured far harsher public criticism without resorting to such measures.

"Critics are arrested and jailed for saying things the NDC government doesn't like. Under Akufo-Addo, we heard worse things, but we endured," the Minority Leader said. He called on party members and opposition supporters to remain vigilant in holding the government accountable whilst defending democratic freedoms.

The congress saw the party's leadership rally members around its 2028 comeback strategy. Afenyo-Markin urged NPP supporters to embrace a more assertive opposition role in Parliament, emphasising that scrutiny of government is not only a right but a constitutional duty of the minority.

Unity Behind Bawumia as Party Reorganises

The NPP used the delegates' gathering to reorganise its national executive leadership, with positions including National Chairman, Vice Chairman, General Secretary, and National Communications Director up for selection. Afenyo-Markin backed the party's 2024 presidential candidate, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, describing him as "a doer and problem solver" and urging members to unite behind him ahead of the next election.

Former Presidents Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor both addressed the congress, offering encouragement. Akufo-Addo expressed confidence that the NPP would return to government in 2028 under Bawumia's leadership, whilst Kufuor called on delegates to select leaders capable of restoring public confidence in the party. Kufuor also emphasised the importance of respecting popular sovereignty and ensuring the party's commitment to the people's will.

Why It Matters for Ghana

The exchange highlights a deepening political tension in Ghana as the newly returned NDC government and opposition NPP navigate their respective roles. Ghana's democracy depends on a robust opposition willing to scrutinise the executive, and concerns about press freedom or intimidation of critics are matters of national importance. If the opposition perceives itself as being suppressed, it could affect the quality of parliamentary debate and public accountability—key pillars of democratic governance.

The NPP's reorganisation and renewed focus on 2028 also signals a competitive political cycle ahead. As both major parties consolidate support and prepare for the next election, the tone and conduct of opposition politics will shape public discourse and confidence in democratic institutions over the coming years. Citizens will be watching how both government and opposition balance legitimate political contestation with respect for the rule of law and freedom of expression.