The Minister for Information, Fatimatu Abubakar, has expressed her disapproval of former President John Dramani Mahama, alleging that his statements pose a threat to the democratic integrity of Ghana through what she characterizes as incendiary and irresponsible language.
During her appearance on Asempa FM’s political talk show, Ekosiisen, in Accra on Friday, Madam Abubakar voiced her apprehensions regarding Mahama’s purported efforts to erode public confidence in national institutions and to create instability in the political landscape as the country approaches the 2024 general elections.
Former President Mahama isn’t above the law, and I find it disappointing to hear such criticisms of independent state institutions coming from a former president. His comments raise concerns about his stance on democracy in Ghana, as he seems to expect that any court case involving him or his party must end in his favor. Is that how the law should be viewed? Absolutely not. The law dictates that all cases before the court should be decided on merit.
Madam Abubakar cited recent remarks made by Mahama, who has consistently expressed apprehensions regarding the integrity of the Electoral Commission (EC) and has alleged that the government is fostering an atmosphere that is favorable to electoral misconduct. She contended that these assertions lack substantiation and represent a significant threat to the democratic stability of Ghana.
Consider the difference between the 2012 and 2020 election petitions. Who presented the most evidence to the court? In 2012, when the Supreme Court ruled against then candidate Akufo-Addo, he accepted the decision without question to preserve our democratic stability. That’s the approach that upholds democracy not trying to bend the law to fit one’s personal or political interests.
The Information Minister highlighted what she characterized as a trend of “dangerous” remarks made by Mahama, contending that his assertions aim to undermine the credibility of Ghana’s democratic institutions. She emphasized that a functioning democracy necessitates adherence to the rule of law and the independence of its institutions.
The Electoral Commission, the courts—these are institutions that we should be rallying behind to support for a fair and transparent election,” Madam Abubakar said. “If a former President undermines their credibility without any concrete evidence, it is not just irresponsible; it’s a direct threat to our nation’s democratic health.
She urged all political parties, including Mahama’s NDC, to demonstrate restraint and place the national interest above political advantages.
There is a time and place for political disagreement, and our democratic system allows for vibrant, competitive debate,” she said. “But when that debate crosses the line into undermining democratic institutions, it becomes not just a political issue but a national one. Political leaders must lead by example and advocate for peace and national cohesion.
