Mahama's reckless rhetoric threatens Ghana's democracy - Information Minister

Ghana's Information Minister, Fatimatu Abubakar, has publicly criticized former President John Dramani Mahama for allegedly endangering the country's democratic fabric with inflammatory comments. Speaking on Asempa FM's Ekosiisen show, Abubakar expressed concerns over Mahama's attempts to undermine trust in national institutions ahead of the 2024 general elections.

Abubakar stated on Asempa FM’s political talk show, Ekosiisen, in Accra on November 1, 2024, that Mahama's statements raise questions about his stance on democracy, particularly his expectation that court cases involving him or his party should always rule in his favor.

She argued that this approach undermines the rule of law and independent institutions, which are essential for a fair and transparent election.

Abubakar also highlighted the contrast between Mahama's behavior and that of current President Nana Akufo-Addo, who accepted the Supreme Court's ruling against him in 2012 without question.

She urged all political parties, including Mahama's NDC, to prioritize national interest over political gain and promote peace and national cohesion.

“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,” she remarked. “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 favour. 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 referenced recent statements by Mahama, who has frequently voiced concerns over the credibility of the Electoral Commission (EC) and accused the government of creating an environment conducive to election malpractice.

“Consider the difference between the 2012 and 2020 election petitions. Who presented the most evidence to the court?” she questioned.

“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 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.”

“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,” she added.

Source: Lead News Online