NPP Accuses Mahama Government of “Political Persecution” as Party Sets Presidential Primary for January 31, 2026

The New Patriotic Party (NPP) has launched a strong attack on the Mahama-led administration, accusing the government of engaging in “political persecution,” manipulating state institutions, and weakening judicial independence. The claims were made during a fiery press conference at the party’s headquarters on Wednesday.

NPP General Secretary Justin Kodua Frimpong outlined what he described as a series of “state-sponsored harassment” incidents targeted at key party members. According to him, the current government has created an “atmosphere of fear” within the judiciary while systematically going after its political opponents.

“The Constitution guarantees the presumption of innocence, yet under this administration, our members are treated as guilty until proven innocent,”
Kodua said.

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Allegations of a Weaponized State and Judicial Interference

Kodua’s accusations were wide-ranging and forceful. He claimed that state security agencies are being “weaponized” against opposition figures, citing what the NPP describes as the “unlawful detention” and strict bail conditions imposed on individuals like Bernard Antwi Boasiako (Wontumi) and former MP Kwabena Adu Boahen.

He also linked the alleged atmosphere of intimidation to the recent exit of Chief Justice Araba Torkonoo, suggesting that her removal has led to judicial complicity and further compromised the courts’ independence.

Kodua reserved his sharpest criticism for Attorney General Dominic Ayine, accusing him of conducting “media trials” and abusing his authority.

“The Attorney General has turned himself into a court of competent jurisdiction,” Kodua charged.
“He pronounces people guilty before trial and frees his political cronies without consequence.”

He referenced the Attorney General’s use of nolle prosequi to drop cases involving certain NDC members, describing it as evidence of selective justice.
(The government has not yet issued a response to these allegations.)

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Primary Date Set Amid Party Reforms

Despite the political tensions, the NPP says it is moving ahead with its internal processes. Kodua confirmed that the party’s presidential primary has been scheduled for January 31, 2026, as part of wider reforms aimed at strengthening the party ahead of the next general elections.

More details on the primary timeline and guidelines are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.