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Fatimatu Abubakar, Ghana’s Minister for Information, has criticized former President John Dramani Mahama for what she deems inflammatory and reckless rhetoric that threatens the country’s democratic framework. During a recent appearance on Asempa FM’s political talk show, Ekosiisen, she expressed concern about Mahama’s alleged attempts to erode public trust in national institutions and destabilize the political landscape as Ghana prepares for 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,” Abubakar stated. She emphasized that Mahama’s remarks raise serious questions about his commitment to democracy, particularly his expectation that any legal proceedings involving him or his party should favor them. “Is that how the law should be viewed? Absolutely not. The law dictates that all cases before the court should be decided on merit,” she asserted.
Abubakar referred to Mahama’s ongoing criticisms regarding the credibility of the Electoral Commission (EC) and accusations that the government is fostering an environment ripe for electoral malpractice. She dismissed these claims as unfounded and warned that they pose a significant threat to Ghana’s democratic stability. “Consider the difference between the 2012 and 2020 election petitions. Who presented the most evidence to the court?” she asked.
She recalled how, in 2012, then-candidate Akufo-Addo accepted the Supreme Court’s decision against him without contest, a move she believes preserved democratic stability. “That’s the approach that upholds democracy, not trying to bend the law to fit one’s personal or political interests,” she stated.
Abubakar characterized Mahama’s statements as part of a troubling pattern aimed at undermining the integrity of Ghana’s democratic institutions. She stressed the importance of respecting the rule of law and supporting independent institutions. “The Electoral Commission and the courts—these are institutions that we should be rallying behind to support for a fair and transparent election,” she urged.
“Undermining their credibility without any concrete evidence is not just irresponsible; it’s a direct threat to our nation’s democratic health,” she added. The Minister called on all political parties, including Mahama’s National Democratic Congress (NDC), to act responsibly and prioritize national interests over political ambitions.
“There is a time and place for political disagreement, and our democratic system allows for vibrant, competitive debate,” she explained. “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 concluded.
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