Ghana’s Democracy Under Siege: State Security Intimidation Must Stop- NPP UK Swindon Chapter Secretary

Ghana’s democratic foundation is at risk as reports emerge of state security forces intimidating former government appointees and arresting journalists. The rising pattern of unlawful arrests, political harassment, and suppression of press freedom signals a worrying shift away from the democratic values Ghana has long upheld says Roberta Baaba Pobee(NPP Swindon Chapter Secretary).

According to Roberta “In a country celebrated for its democratic progress, the growing use of state security agencies as tools of oppression is deeply troubling. Instead of ensuring national safety and protecting citizens, security forces are increasingly being deployed to target critics, silence opposition voices, and suppress media freedom.”

Recent reports suggest that several former government officials have been subjected to midnight raids, arbitrary arrests, and politically motivated investigations. These actions, often carried out under the guise of law enforcement, appear to be strategic moves to weaken political opposition rather than genuine attempts to uphold justice.

She wrote in the Facebook post that “Ghana’s democracy thrives on the rule of law and due process, not the use of state machinery to intimidate opponents. If a former appointee is suspected of wrongdoing, there are clear legal procedures to follow. Resorting to harassment and heavy-handed tactics undermines the very democracy that the government claims to uphold.”

Equal concerns are on the increasing assault on press freedom. Journalists who expose corruption, governance failures, or human rights abuses now risk arrest, threats, and harassment.

“Several media houses critical of the government have been shut down, journalists have been detained under questionable charges, and investigative reporters continue to face intimidation. The role of the media as the fourth estate of governance is essential for transparency and accountability. Without a free and independent press, democracy is meaningless.” – Roberta added

Ghana has long been a beacon of democracy in Africa, but these recent actions are damaging its reputation on the global stage. The government’s increasing reliance on security forces to stifle opposition and silence journalists mirrors the tactics of autocratic regimes—an alarming departure from Ghana’s proud democratic tradition.

Again she further added that “If journalists cannot report freely and political opponents are persecuted with impunity, then Ghana risks becoming an authoritarian state.”

The Swindon Chapter Secretary in her concluding remarks cautioned President Mahama that Ghana belongs to its people, not just those in power. If these undemocratic actions continue, they will undermine the very foundation of the nation’s governance.

“Mr. President, Ghana’s democracy is on the line. The people of Ghana are watching. The international community is watching. History will judge the actions taken today.The choice is simple—uphold democracy or allow tyranny to take over”