The arrest and detention of Kwame Baffoe continue to dominate political discussions across Ghana, deepening divisions between the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) and supporters of the government over issues of justice, political accountability, and freedom of expression.
Speaking on Ahotor FM’s Simpieso programme hosted by Alaska De Don, Director of Communications for the United Party, Solomon Owusu, strongly defended the current administration while sharply criticising the NPP’s response to the arrest.
According to Mr. Owusu, the outrage from the opposition appears selective and politically motivated, particularly given what he described as the NPP’s own record while in government. He argued that many Ghanaians still remember incidents during the previous administration in which journalists, activists, and political opponents were allegedly intimidated or arrested.
He referenced the arrests of activist Mensah Thompson, broadcaster Mugabe Maase, and media personality Blessed Godsbrain Smart, claiming those incidents created fear among sections of the media and civil society. He also cited the infamous Delta Force invasion of a Kumasi court during the NPP administration as an example of what he described as political interference and lawlessness.
Mr. Owusu stressed that the current political climate should not be viewed in isolation, but rather within the broader context of Ghana’s recent political history. In his view, political actors who once defended state institutions while in power are now questioning those same institutions because they find themselves in opposition.
He questioned why some NPP officials now claim the judiciary and security services are compromised when, according to him, they previously argued that no government could control the judiciary. He maintained that if Abronye or his legal team believe the courts acted unfairly, the proper course of action should be through legal procedures rather than public pressure or political agitation.
The United Party communicator further accused the NPP leadership of failing to discipline outspoken figures within the party during its time in office. He alleged that Kwame Baffoe repeatedly attacked religious leaders, political opponents, and public figures with harsh language without condemnation from senior party executives.
Mr. Owusu specifically mentioned former Vice President Mahamudu Bawumia, arguing that many controversial remarks and actions by party communicators occurred under his watch without strong public disapproval from the party leadership.
He also revisited claims that Abronye petitioned members of the diplomatic community in September 2025, alleging insecurity and political persecution. Mr. Owusu described the move as unnecessary and misleading, insisting that the NPP should instead have advised its communicators to lower political tensions rather than escalate national divisions.
Beyond the Abronye issue, Solomon Owusu used the interview to reflect on Ghana’s broader socio-economic challenges. He lamented the growing number of young Ghanaians seeking opportunities abroad, particularly in the United States, stating that Ghana possesses sufficient natural and human resources to create prosperity locally if managed effectively.
He said the sight of large crowds at embassies seeking visas saddens him because it reflects declining confidence in national leadership and economic management. According to him, Ghana has the potential to become globally competitive if corruption, mismanagement, and excessive partisanship are addressed.
The outspoken communicator also criticised the NPP over what he described as economic hardship during its administration, citing unpopular taxes and the rising cost of living experienced by many citizens. He argued that these experiences make it difficult for the party to position itself today as a defender of ordinary Ghanaians.
Mr. Owusu further took aim at NPP National Youth Organiser Salam Mustapha over comments surrounding the party’s internal affairs and ongoing polling station executive elections, which he claimed have become increasingly chaotic and violent in some areas.
In a surprising revelation, Solomon Owusu disclosed that although he was once a member of the NPP, he never supported the administration of former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr. Bawumia because he aligned himself with Alan Kyerematen during the party’s internal contest.
He argued that the NPP’s current posture in opposition could keep the party out of power for a long time if it fails to embrace humility, rebuild trust with the electorate, and support national development efforts instead of engaging in constant confrontation.
Mr. Owusu concluded by urging political leaders across the divide to tone down inflammatory rhetoric and focus on strengthening Ghana’s democratic institutions, national unity, and economic growth.
Story by Stephen Kwaku Owusu Mintah
